Focalin XR (Dexmethylphenidate Hydrochloride) Drug Overview and Uses for Patients and Caregivers at RxList

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May 27, 2012

Focalin XR

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What are ADHD medications and how do they work?

ADHD medications are drugs used to treat some of the characteristic behaviors associated with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, including inattention, hyperactivity, and poor impulse control.

Drugs used to treat ADHD target chemicals in the brain known as neurotransmitters. One type of ADHD medication works by increasing levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine. Another type of ADHD drug increases the level of another neurotransmitter, norepinephrine.

ADHD drug treatment should begin only after a specific diagnosis of ADHD has been made. A clinical diagnosis requires that symptoms have persisted for at least six months. There is no blood test or radiological scan that can diagnose ADHD.

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Focalin XR User Reviews >>

Focalin XR

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Focalin XR Consumer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

DEXMETHYLPHENIDATE EXTENDED-RELEASE CAPSULE - ORAL

(dex-meth-ill-FEN-eh-date)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Focalin XR

WARNING: Misuse or abuse of dexmethylphenidate may result in serious (possibly fatal) heart and blood pressure problems.

Dexmethylphenidate may be habit-forming and should be used cautiously by people who have mental/mood disorders or a history of alcohol/drug abuse. Such patients may be more likely to increase their dose of this drug unnecessarily or take this medication too often. With prolonged use or abuse of this medication, drug dependence and abnormal behavior may occur. Withdrawal symptoms may occur after stopping the drug. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details. (See also How to Use section.)

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 section contains uses of this drug that are not listed in the approved professional labeling for the drug but that may be prescribed by your health care professional. Use this drug for a condition that is listed in this section only if it has been so prescribed by your health care professional.

This drug may also be used for certain sleep disorders (e.g., narcolepsy). This medication should not be used to treat severe depression or tiredness or to hold off sleep in people who do not have a sleep disorder.

HOW TO USE: Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start using dexmethylphenidate and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Take this medication by mouth with or without food, usually once daily as soon as you wake up in the morning or as directed by your doctor. Taking this medication late in the day may cause trouble sleeping (insomnia).

The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Your doctor may adjust your dose to find the dose that is best for you. The total daily dose is usually 20 milligrams or less. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully.

Do not crush or chew the capsules. Swallow the medication whole. If you have difficulty swallowing this medication whole, the capsule may be carefully opened and the contents sprinkled on a spoonful of applesauce. Immediately after mixing, swallow the mixture without chewing. Chewing the mixture may destroy the long action of the drug and may increase the risk of side effects. Do not mix and store for future use.

Methylphenidate and dexmethylphenidate are different medications and do not provide the same amount of medicine. Do not switch between products unless your doctor tells you to.

Use this medication regularly and exactly as prescribed in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day.

This medication may cause withdrawal reactions, especially if it has been used regularly for a long time or in high doses. In such cases, withdrawal symptoms (such as depression, suicidal thoughts, or other mental/mood changes) may occur if you suddenly stop using this medication. To prevent withdrawal reactions, your doctor may reduce your dose gradually. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details, and report any withdrawal reactions immediately.

Though it is very unlikely to occur, this medication can also result in abnormal drug-seeking behavior (addiction/habit forming). Do not increase your dose, take it more frequently, or use it for a longer time than prescribed. Properly stop the medication when so directed. This will lessen the chances of becoming addicted.

Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens. Your doctor may recommend drug holidays when your medication is stopped temporarily so that behavior can be re-evaluated.