Medicine Article Rewrite: Methylphenidate Controlled-Release Tablets
Generic Name:
Methylphenidate Controlled-Release Tablets [ meth-il-FEN-i-date ]
Brand Names:
Methylin ER, Ritalin SR
Drug Class:
CNS stimulants
Warning:
This medication has a risk of abuse and misuse. Only use this medication as directed by your doctor. Inform your doctor if you have a history of drug or alcohol abuse or addiction.
Uses of Methylphenidate Controlled-Release Tablets:
Treatment of attention deficit problems with hyperactivity
Treatment of narcolepsy
May be prescribed for other reasons, consult with your doctor
What do I need to tell my doctor BEFORE I take Methylphenidate Controlled-Release Tablets?
If you are allergic to methylphenidate or any other component of this medication
If you have any of the following health conditions: glaucoma, agitation, anxiety, overactive thyroid, blood vessel disease, high blood pressure, heart structure problems, other heart problems, Tourette’s syndrome or tics, or have had a stroke
If you have taken certain drugs for depression or Parkinson’s disease in the last 14 days, including isocarboxazid, phenelzine, tranylcypromine, selegiline, or rasagiline
If you are taking linezolid or methylene blue
This is not an exhaustive list of all drugs or health conditions that may interact with this medication. Inform your doctor and pharmacist of all medications, including prescription, over-the-counter, natural products, and vitamins, as well as any health conditions you may have. Do not stop, start, or change the dosage of any medication without consulting your doctor.
What are some things I need to know or do while I take Methylphenidate Controlled-Release Tablets?
Inform all healthcare providers that you are taking this medication, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists
Avoid driving or performing tasks that require alertness until you know how this medication affects you
Seek medical attention immediately if you experience symptoms such as a fast, slow, or abnormal heartbeat; weakness on one side of the body; trouble speaking or thinking; change in balance; drooping on one side of the face; change in eyesight; chest pain or pressure; shortness of breath; or severe dizziness or passing out
Undergo heart tests before starting this medication if necessary
Check blood pressure and heart rate as directed by your doctor
Talk to your doctor if you have a history of seizures or are at risk of seizures while taking this medication
Avoid consuming alcohol while taking this medication
Seek medical attention immediately if you experience symptoms of serotonin syndrome, such as agitation, confusion, hallucinations, fever, fast or abnormal heartbeat, flushing, muscle twitching or stiffness, seizures, shivering or shaking, sweating a lot, severe diarrhea, upset stomach, or vomiting, or severe headache
Contact your doctor immediately if you experience unexplained bruising or bleeding; signs of infection like fever, chills, or sore throat; or feel very tired or weak
Children and teens taking this medication may require regular growth checks
Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. Discuss the benefits and risks of taking this medication with your doctor.
How is this medication best taken?
Use this medication as directed by your doctor. Read all information provided and follow instructions closely
Take in the morning
Some drugs may need to be taken with food or on an empty stomach. Check with your pharmacist about how to take this medication
Swallow whole. Do not chew, break, or crush
If you have been taking this medication for a long time or at high doses, it may not work as well and you may require higher doses to achieve the same effect. This is known as tolerance. Contact your doctor if this medication stops working well. Do not take more than prescribed
Avoid consuming caffeine (e.g., tea, coffee, cola) and chocolate while taking this medication, as
