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Methylphenidate

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  • Do not stop taking methylphenidate without speaking to your doctor first.
  • During your treatment you will be invited for regular check-ups. It is important that you keep these appointments.
  • IMPORTANT: If you get any of these symptoms tell your doctor: skin rash, itching, unexplained bruising or bleeding, persistent sore throat, high temperature, joint pain or chest pain.

About methylphenidate

Type of medicine A stimulant.
Used for Treatment of children with ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder).
Also called Equasym
Ritalin
Concerta XL
Medikinet, Medikinet XL
Available as Tablets and capsules. It is also available in a modified release form, which means it is released slowly over the day to give a more even effect.

Methylphenidate is a mild stimulant of the central nervous system which enhances the activity of certain under-active parts of the brain. It is used to treat a behavioural disorder in children known as attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Before taking methylphenidate

Before taking methylphenidate make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

  • If you suffer from heart problems or heart defects.
  • If you suffer from hypertension (high blood pressure).
  • If you suffer from epilepsy, tics (twitching of the muscles without control from the patient), Tourette's syndrome (outbursts of uncontrollable obscene speech).
  • If you suffer from glaucoma (increased pressure in the eye) or porphyria (a blood disorder).
  • If you suffer from thyroid problems.
  • If you have an eating disorder.
  • If you have blood circulation problems.
  • If you suffer from mood disorders, severe depression, or have thoughts about suicide.
  • If you have a drug or alcohol dependence.
  • If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.
  • If you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
  • If as an adolescent you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.

How to take methylphenidate

  • Always read the manufacturer's information leaflet, if possible, before beginning treatment.
  • Try to take methylphenidate at the same times each day, to avoid missing any doses.
  • Swallow the modified release form of methylphenidate whole, not crushed or chewed with a glass of water.
  • Do not stop taking methylphenidate without speaking to your doctor first.
  • Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of methylphenidate contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Where possible take the container with you, even if it is empty.
  • Methylphenidate is for you. Never give it to others even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
  • Do not drink alcohol with methylphenidate

Getting the most from your treatment

  • Before taking any "over-the-counter" medicines check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to take alongside methylphenidate.
  • Keep you regular appointments with your doctor. You will probably have to undergo tests during your treatment to ensure the dose you are taking is right for you.
  • If your doctor has instructed methylphenidate to be taken once a day, in the morning, you may notice it has worn off by bedtime. If this is a problem, you should speak with your doctor who may decide a further dose is needed before bedtime.
  • Methylphenidate may cause you to sweat more than you usually do. Take care not to become overheated during exercise or hot weather.
  • Before having any kind of surgery, including dental and emergency treatment, tell your doctor, dentist or surgeon you are taking methylphenidate.

Can methylphenidate cause problems

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Common side-effects - these affect less than 1 in 10 people who take this medicine What can I do if I experience this
Nervousness and sleeplessness Discuss the timing of your doses with your doctor.
Lack of appetite, stomach pain or sickness Take the tablets with your meals.
Headache Ask your pharmacist to recommend a suitable pain-killer. If headache continues speak with your doctor.
Drowsiness, dizziness Make sure your reactions are normal before doing things which could be dangerous if you were not fully alert.
Dry mouth Try chewing sugar-free gum, sucking pieces of ice or sugar-free sweets.

Other side-effects may include heart palpitations (a feeling of rapid heart beats), unusual body movements or tics, fever, muscle pain and hair loss.

IMPORTANT: If you get any of the following symptoms tell your doctor: skin rash, itching, unexplained bruising or bleeding, persistent sore throat, high temperature, joint pain or chest pain.

How to store methylphenidate

  • Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
  • Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
  • Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of unwanted medicines for you.

Important information about all medicines


  • Make sure that the person prescribing this medicine knows about any other medicines that you are taking. This includes medicines you buy and herbal and homeopathic medicines.
  • Before taking this medicine tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction after taking any medicine.
  • Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if it is empty.
  • This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
  • If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.
Comprehensive patient resources are available at www.patient.co.uk
© EMIS 2009 DocID: 3641 DocRef: dils3311 Last Reviewed: 2 Aug 2007 Version: 23

The authors and editors of this article are employed to create accurate and up to date content reflecting reliable research evidence, guidance and best clinical practice. They are free from any commercial conflicts of interest. Find out more about updating.

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