Generic Name:
E: METHYLPHENIDATE (meth-ill-FEN-i-date)
Drug Manufacturer:
NOVARTIS
Common Uses: This
medicine is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant used to treat
narcolepsy (sudden and uncontrollable attacks of drowsiness and sleep) and
attention-deficit disorders. It may also be used to treat other conditions
as determined by your doctor. This medicine should not be used to treat
tiredness or depression.
How to use this Medicine:
Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor.
CHILDREN: Take your dose exactly at the times indicated by your doctor.
ADULTS: Take your dose 30 to 45 minutes before meals or as directed by your
doctor. TO PREVENT THIS MEDICINE FROM AFFECTING SLEEP: try not to take a
dose later than 6 pm. STORE THIS MEDICINE at room temperature, away from
heat and light. IF YOU MISS A DOSE OF THIS MEDICINE, take it as soon as
possible. Take the remaining doses for the day at evenly spaced intervals.
Do not take 2 doses at once.
Cautions: DO NOT EXCEED
THE RECOMMENDED DOSE or take this medicine for longer than prescribed
without checking with your doctor. DO NOT STOP TAKING THIS MEDICINE without
first checking with your doctor. KEEP ALL DOCTOR AND LABORATORY APPOINTMENTS
while you are using this medicine. DO NOT DRIVE, OPERATE MACHINERY, OR DO
ANYTHING ELSE THAT COULD BE DANGEROUS until you know how you react to this
medicine. Using this medicine alone, with other medicines, or with alcohol
may lessen your ability to drive or to perform other potentially dangerous
tasks. BEFORE YOU BEGIN TAKING ANY NEW MEDICINE, either prescription or
over-the-counter, check with your doctor or pharmacist. FOR WOMEN: IF YOU
PLAN ON BECOMING PREGNANT, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks
of using this medicine during pregnancy. IT IS UNKNOWN IF THIS MEDICINE IS
EXCRETED in breast milk. IF YOU ARE OR WILL BE BREAST-FEEDING while you are
using this medicine, check with your doctor or pharmacist to discuss the
risks to your baby.
Possible Side Effects:
SIDE EFFECTS that may occur while taking this medicine include decreased
appetite (more severe in children), stomach upset, difficulty falling
asleep, headache, nervousness, or dizziness. If they continue or are
bothersome, check with your doctor. CHECK WITH YOUR DOCTOR AS SOON AS
POSSIBLE if you experience a fever, joint pain, weight loss, irregular
heartbeat, chest pain, vision changes or blurred vision, seizures,
involuntary muscle movements, or changes in mood or personality. AN ALLERGIC
REACTION to this medicine is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention
if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching,
swelling, dizziness, or trouble breathing. If you notice any other effects,
contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.
