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Focalin

What is attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)?

ADHD refers to a chronic biobehavioral disorder that initially manifests in childhood and is characterized by hyperactivity, impulsivity, and/or inattention. Not all of those affected by ADHD manifest all three behavioral categories. These symptoms can lead to difficulty in academic, emotional, and social functioning. The diagnosis is established by satisfying specific criteria and may be associated with other neurological, significant behavioral, and/or developmental/learning disabilities. Therapy may consider the use of medication, behavioral therapy, and adjustments in day-to-day lifestyle activities.

Studies in the United States indicates approximately 8%-10% of children satisfy diagnostic criteria for ADHD. ADHD is, therefore, one of the most common disorders of childhood. ADHD occurs two to four times more commonly in boys than girls (male to female ratio 4:1 for the predominant...

Focalin

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Focalin Drug Center

Pharmacy Editor: Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD

Focalin (dexmethylphenidate) is a mild stimulant to the central nervous system that is used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It is taken orally in tablet form. Possible side effects can include restlessness, stomach upset, loss of appetite, dry mouth, headache, or sleep disturbances.

Focalin should not be used in children under 6 years, since safety and efficacy in this age group have not been established. Adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women have not been conducted. Focalin should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is not known whether dexmethylphenidate is excreted in human milk.

Our Focalin AR Drug Center provides a comprehensive view of available drug information as well as related drugs, user reviews, supplements, and diseases, and condition.

What is Prescribing information?

The FDA package insert formatted in easy-to-find categories for health professionals and clinicians.

Focalin Prescribing Information: Indications & Dosage

Focalin® (dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride) Structural Formula Illustration

Focalin (dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride) is indicated for the treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

The efficacy of Focalin (dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride) in the treatment of ADHD was established in two controlled trials of patients aged 6 to 17 years of age who met DSM-IV criteria for ADHD (see Clinical Studies).

A diagnosis of ADHD (DSM-IV) implies the presence of hyperactive-impulsive or inattentive symptoms that cause impairment and were present before age 7 years. The symptoms must cause clinically significant impai...

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What is Patient information?

Easy-to-read and understand detailed drug information and pill images for the patient or caregiver from Cerner Multum.

Focalin Patient Information: Side Effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using dexmethylphenidate and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

  • dangerously high blood pressure (severe headache, blurred vision, ringing in your ears, chest pain, numbness, seizure);
  • fast or uneven heart rate;
  • blurred vision or other visual changes;
  • unusual behavior, confusion; or
  • twitching or tics.

Less...

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What is Consumer information?

A concise overview of the drug for the patient or caregiver from First DataBank.

Focalin Consumer Information: Uses

Dexmethylphenidate is used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as part of a total treatment plan including psychological, educational, social, and other treatments.

It is thought to work by restoring the balance of certain natural substances (neurotransmitters) in the brain. This medication helps increase your ability to pay attention, stay focused on an activity, and control behavior problems. It may also help improve listening skills, help you to stop fidgeting, and allow you to organize your tasks better.

OTHER USES: This ...

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What is Focalin Consumer Information?

Warnings - Uses - How to Use - Side Effects - Precautions - Drug Interactions and More

Focalin - User Reviews

Focalin User Reviews

Now you can gain knowledge and insight about a drug treatment with Patient Discussions.

Here is a collection of user reviews for the medication Focalin sorted by most helpful. Patient Discussions FAQs

Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration

 

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.


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