Concerta – Information, Uses, Side Effects and Dosage

Drug trade name: Concerta

Category: Central nervous system stimulant.

Generic name: methylphenidate

Introduction and Quick Information:

Concerta (methylphenidate) is a medication, used for the treatment of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), attention deficit disorder (ADD) and narcolepsy. It stimulates central nervous system (brain) and nerves which lead to the reduction in hyperactivity and produces a calming effect. Concerta is recommended for 6 years above people till 65 years. The people suffering from ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) reports considerable improvement in their symptoms by the use of Concerta.

Is it approved by U.S. FDA?

The U.S. FDA has approved Concerta (methylphenidate) to cure ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder). Concerta (methylphenidate) is not approved for children less than six years of age.

Usage and Benefits of Concerta:

Mostly, children and teenagers are affected but elders are also prone to this disease. Concerta (methylphenidate) also helps in combating depression, mental fatigue and improving attention.

Concerta Side effects:

Concerta (methylphenidate) has many side effects which can be harmful to you. Though this drug has no life-threatening side effects; it is still advised to consider its side effects and seek immediate help from your doctor. Side-effects are listed below:

• High blood pressure
• Dizziness
• Abdominal pain
• Hostility
• Dry mouth
• Headache
• Insomnia
• Nervousness
• Sinus pain
• Coughing
• Depression
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea
• Arrhythmias

General Recommended Dosages of Concerta:

You should always take Concerta as prescribed by your doctor, don’t try to take it in larger or smaller amounts as it can prove harmful or ineffective. But in general, it is taken 3 times daily till evening. It is not taken at late night as it may lead to insomnia.   

In Case I Miss the Dose?

In case you miss the dose, you can take it as soon as you remember. But, if you remember it the next day it’s better to skip the dose and take your next day scheduled dose. Don’t take the double or overdose to make up for the missed one.

In Case I Take Overdose?

In case of overdose seek medical help as it can be fatal. The overdose of Concerta (methylphenidate) generally causes:

• Seizure (convulsions)
• Blurred vision
• Vomiting
• Tremors
• Muscle twitching
• Hallucinations
• Dry mouth
• Fainting
• Agitation
• Fast or pounding heartbeat

Drug Interactions of Concerta:

Here is the list of drugs which should be avoided while on Concerta (methylphenidate):

• fluoxetine (Prozac)
  
• rasagiline (Azilect)
• epinephrine (Adrenaline, EpiPen)
• dobutamine (Dobutrex)
• phenelzine (Nardil)
• amitriptyline (Elavil)
  
• selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam, Zelapar)
• dopamine (Intropin)
• isocarboxazid (Marplan)
• norepinephrine (Levophed)
• tranylcypromine (Parnate)
• fluvoxamine (Luvox)
• paroxetine (Paxil)
• clomipramine (Anafranil)
• sertraline (Zoloft)
• amoxapine (Asendin)
• doxepin (Sinequan, Silenor)
• imipramine (Tofranil)
• desipramine (Norpramin)

Lifestyle and Food Habits You Must Follow When on Concerta:

Many people say that fish oil or fish oil pills help in calming hyperactivities or impulse behavior. But, it is always good to consult with your healthcare advisor like (doctor or physician) to know what care is needed when using Concerta. It is advised not to consume alcohol when using Concrete.

How Safe Is Concerta for Pregnant Women or Nursing Mothers?

This drug can prove harmful to the babies. So, if you are pregnant or planning to get pregnant you should tell your doctor.

Pregnancy category: C (Use with caution if benefits outweigh risks)

Lactation: Unknown; avoid during breastfeeding; use caution

Complications and Conditions Possible Due to Prolonged Use of Concerta:

The prolonged use of Concerta (methylphenidate) is harmful as it may cause paranoia, drug dependence, behavioral sensitization, severe anxiety, grandiosity, euphoria, confusion, paranoid delusions, increased aggression and irritability or schizophrenia. Though these known symptoms are not very common; but few cases are reported. It’s better to consult your doctor.

Availability of the drug Concerta:

This drug is available only by prescription.