Focalin (Dexmethylphenidate Hydrochloride) Drug Information: Description, User Reviews, Drug Side Effects, Interactions

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February 9, 2012

Focalin

Adult ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) »

What Is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)?

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most well-recognized childhood developmental problems. This condition is characterized by inattention, hyperactivity and impulsiveness. It is now known that these symptoms continue into adulthood for about 60% of children with ADHD. That translates into 4% of the US adult population, or 8 million adults. However, few adults are identified or treated for adult ADHD.

ADHD in Adults

Adults with ADHD may have difficulty following directions, remembering information, concentrating, organizing tasks or completing work within time limits. If these difficulties are not managed appropriately, they can cause associated behavioral, emotional, social, vocational and academic problems.

Adult ADHD Stats

ADHD afflicts approximately 3% to 5% of school-age children and an es...

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Focalin

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Focalin®
(dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride) Tablets

DRUG DESCRIPTION

Focalin® (dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride) is the d-threo-enantiomer of racemic methylphenidate hydrochloride, which is a 50/50 mixture of the d-threo and l-threo-enantiomers. Focalin (dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride) is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant, available in three tablet strengths. Each tablet contains dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride 2.5, 5, or 10 mg for oral administration. Dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride is methyl α-phenyl-2-piperidineacetate hydrochloride, (R,R')-(+)-. Its empirical formula is C₁₄H₁₉NO₂•HCl. Its molecular weight is 269.77 and its structural formula is

Focalin® (dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride) Structural Formula Illustration

Note: * = asymmetric carbon centers

Dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride is a white to off white powder. Its solutions are acid to litmus. It is freely soluble in water and in methanol, soluble in alcohol, and slightly soluble in chloroform and in acetone.

Focalin (dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride) also contains the following inert ingredients: pregelatinized starch, lactose monohydrate, sodium starch glycolate, microcrystalline cellulose, magnesium stearate, and FD&C Blue No.1 #5516 aluminum lake (2.5 mg tablets), D&C Yellow Lake #10 (5 mg tablets); the 10 mg tablet contains no dye.

What are the possible side effects of dexmethylphenidate (Focalin, Focalin XR)?

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,...

Read All Potential Side Effects and See Pictures of Focalin »

What are the precautions when taking dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride (Focalin)?

Before taking dexmethylphenidate, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to methylphenidate; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

This medication should not be used if you have certain medical conditions. Before using this medicine, consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have: severe anxiety/tension, heart/blood vessel disease (e.g., irregular heartbeat/rhythm, coronary artery disease, angina, heart failure, cardiomyopathy), problems with heart structure (e.g., valve problems), history of heart attack or stroke, certain eye problem (glaucoma), personal or family history of uncontrolled muscle movements (motor tics,...

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Last reviewed on RxList: 1/27/2011
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.