home > drugs a-z list > ritalin la (methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules) drug center > ritalin la (methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules) drug - consumer uses and warnings

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.

METHYLPHENIDATE SUSTAINED-ACTION - ORAL

(meth-ill-FEN-eh-date)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Metadate CD, Ritalin LA

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

Methylphenidate should be given cautiously to emotionally unstable patients, especially if there is a history of alcohol or drug abuse. These patients may be more likely to unnecessarily increase their doses or take this medication too often. Long-term overuse of this medication may lead to reduced drug effect, drug dependence, and abnormal behavior.

Take this medication only by mouth. Serious mental/mood changes (e.g., psychosis) may occur, especially if this drug is abused.

If methylphenidate must be stopped, it should be stopped gradually over time. Follow your doctor's instructions on how to gradually lower the dose. In some patients, long-term monitoring may be required after the medication is stopped.

USES: Methylphenidate is used to treat attention disorders (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD) as part of a total treatment plan including psychological, educational and social measures. When this medication is used to treat ADHD, patients may find they have increased attention, decreased impulsiveness, and decreased hyperactivity (see also Notes section). This medication is a mild stimulant that works by affecting the levels of chemicals (neurotransmitters) in the nervous system.

This medication should not be used to treat simple fatigue symptoms.

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 medication may also be used in patients who have narcolepsy (a disorder of sleep regulation) or used in combination with other medications to treat certain mood disorders (certain cases of depression).

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

Take this medication by mouth, usually once daily before or with breakfast, or as directed by your doctor. If the medication upsets your stomach, you may take it with food.

Swallow this medication whole. Do not crush or chew the capsule or its contents; doing so can destroy the long action of the drug and may increase side effects.

If the capsule cannot be swallowed whole, some brands of this medication allow the capsule to be opened and sprinkled onto applesauce. Ask your pharmacist if your brand may be taken this way. If so, you may sprinkle the contents of a capsule onto a spoonful of applesauce and take immediately. Do not chew the applesauce mixture. Do not save it for later use. Drink a glass of liquid after each dose.

Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time each day. It may take up to two weeks to notice an improvement while on this drug.

Use this medication exactly as prescribed. Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Your doctor may instruct you to gradually increase or decrease your dose. Do not increase your dose, use it more frequently or use it for a longer period of time than prescribed because this drug can be habit-forming. Also, if this medication is used for a long period of time, do not suddenly stop using this without first consulting your doctor.

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 severe depression and chronic overactivity) 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 period of time than prescribed. Properly stop the medication when so directed. This will lessen the chances of becoming addicted.

When used for an extended period, this medication may not work as well and may require different dosing. Talk with your doctor if this medication stops working well.

Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.