Methylphenidate

About methylphenidate

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.

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