Methylphenidate is a stimulant, which is part of a treatment regimen for the control of Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder, ADD an narcolepsy. It acts by altering the amount of certain substances in the brain, which are responsible for the condition. It comes in various forms for the convenient use of patients. It produces many side effects and is habit-forming. As such, it has a number of contraindicated combinations and should be taken very strictly as instructed. As is the case with regulated drugs, it has the potential of abuse and must therefore be subjected to strict monitoring.
Methylphenidate is part of a therapy regimen for the control of the symptoms of Attention Deficity Hyperactivity Disorder or ADHD in adults and children (Ogbru 2013, Medline Plus 2012). It stimulates the central nervous system similarly as amphetamines but more mildly. The effects of methylphenidate are also more noticeable on mental activities than in physical movements. It also is used in treating narcolepsy and Attention Deficit Disorder or ADD. Stimulants control these symptoms by changing the amount of natural substances in the brain responsible for the conditions. But both classes of stimulants are carefully used because of their potential abuse. They calm the patient, reduce their hyperactivity and increase attention span. FDA approved methylphenidate in 1955 (Ogbru, MedlinePlus).
Generic and Trade Names
Generic names -- methylphenidate, Methylphenidylacetate hydrochloride
Trade names -- Concerta, Metadate, Methylin, Ritalin, Adderall
Toxicity and Side Effects
It is to be used with cause on patients with relatives who suffer from Tourette's psychosis, emotional instability, major depression, glaucoma or motor tics (NIDA 2009, MedlinePlus 2012, Ogbru 2013). It must also be used cautiously on patients with a history of substance or alcohol abuse. Long-term abuse can develop tolerance or psychological dependence, which can in turn, lead to dangerous or abnormal behavior (NIDA, MedlinePlus, Ogbru).
Side Effects
Nervousness
Agitation
Anxiety
Insomnia
Loss of appetite
Abdominal pain
Weight loss
Sleep problems
Other Side Effects -- nausea, vomiting, dizziness, palpitations, headache, involuntary movements, chest pain, increased heart rate, increased blood pressure and psychosis (NIDA 2009, MedlinePlus 2012, Ogbru 2013).
Indications for Use
It comes in the form of an immediate-release tablet, as a chewable tablet, in liquid
form, as an intermediate-acting tablet, as a long-acting capsule or as an extended-release long-acting tablet. The long-acting and capsule forms act immediately and release the rest over a long duration. All these are taken orally.
It should be taken exactly as directed by the physician.
The tablets should be thoroughly chewed, followed by a full 8-ounce glass of water or another liquid. If not enough liquid is taken after the chewable tablet, it may swell and block the throat. Chocking may develop. If chest pain, vomiting or difficult swallowing or breathing occurs, a doctor should be contacted immediately for medical treatment (NIDA 2009, MedlinePlus 2012).
The intermediate-acting and extended-release tablets and capsules should be swallowed whole. They should not be broken, chewed or crushed. If they cannot be swallowed, they should be opened and the contents placed on a tablespoon with cool applesauce. The entire content should be swallowed at once and a glass of water taken in immediate. It should not be stored for future use.
The doctor may begin with a low dose and gradually increase it but only once week. The condition is expected to improve during treatment but a doctor should be immediately contacted if it does not.
The doctor may suspend the use of methylphenidate from time to determine and assess its effect. The patient should follow his instruction strictly.
Dosage
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