Key facts about Methylphenidate HCI
What dosages is Methylphenidate HCI available in?
Methylphenidate HCI is available as an 18 mg, 27 mg, 36 mg, and 54 mg extended-release oral tabet.
What is Methylphenidate HCI used for?
Methylphenidate HCI is a stimulant and is used to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
How does Methylphenidate HCI work?
Methylphenidate HCI is a stimulant medication. It’s not exactly known how methylphenidate ER helps to improve attention and focus. But it’s thought to work by raising the levels of chemicals in your brain called norepinephrine and dopamine. It’s also thought to boost the activity of serotonin in the brain.
How do I take Methylphenidate HCI?
There are several different formulations (e.g., tablet, capsule, liquid) and brand names of methylphenidate ER. The dose, frequency (how often you take the medication), and age cut-offs might differ between the formulations and brands. Make sure you know which methylphenidate ER product you’re using and how to take it properly. The typical dose is 1 pill by mouth once per day in the morning for adults and children age 6 years and up.
Is it safe for me to take Methylphenidate HCI?
Methylphenidate HCI is a safe and effective treatment when used for FDA licensed indications. However, like all medications, they may give you unwanted side effects. You should always discuss potential side effects with your physician to ensure the medication is suitable and right for you. You should not use this medication if you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you. Severe allergy to methylphenidate-containing products Currently take or have taken an MAOI in the last 14 days Inherited problems affecting the ability to digest certain sugars (e.g., fructose intolerance, glucose-galactose malabsorption, or sucrase-isomaltase insufficiency) – capsules that contain sucrose only
Marked anxiety, tension, and distress – Relexxi brand only
Glaucoma – Relexxi brand only Motor tics, or personal or family history of Tourette syndrome
Methylphenidate HCI Common Side Effects
Common side effects of Methylphenidate HCI:
- Headache
- Low appetite
- Stomach pain
- Trouble sleeping
Methylphenidate HCI Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects are rare with Methylphenidate HCI. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
- Allergic reactions: rash; hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Heart problems: heart attack, fast heart rate, high blood pressure
- Brain-related problems: seizures, stroke
- Mental health-related problems: manic episodes, changes in thoughts or behavior, hallucinations
- Serotonin syndrome: fast heart rate, sweating, muscle stiffness or spasms, fever, confusion
Effects of other drugs, drug classes and over-the-counter products on Methylphenidate HCI
The following medications may interact with Methylphenidate HCI:
- Methylphenidate HCI may increase blood pressure; use cautiously with vasopressors
- Inhibition of metabolism of coumarin anticoagulants, anticonvulsants, and some antidepressants
Who makes Methylphenidate HCI?
Various FDA-approved generic manufacturers
Is Methylphenidate HCI safe in pregnancy?
The safety of methylphenidate for use during human pregnancy has not been established. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Methylphenidate HCI should
be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
