Stimulants (including dexmethylphenidate extended-release) are often abused. Taking high doses of dexmethylphenidate extended-release for long periods of time can lead to dependence on dexmethylphenidate extended-release (see Focalin XR Abuse). Because dexmethylphenidate extended-release is so commonly abused, there are special rules for prescribing the medication (see Focalin XR: A Controlled Substance for more information).
In people with psychotic disorders (including schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder), dexmethylphenidate extended-release can worsen psychotic symptoms such as thought disorders and behavior problems. Also, dexmethylphenidate extended-release may worsen bipolar symptoms, especially manic symptoms.
Sudden death has been reported in children and adolescents with heart problems who took normal doses of dexmethylphenidate extended-release. If your child has heart problems, talk with your healthcare provider about whether dexmethylphenidate extended-release is appropriate for your situation. Also, let your healthcare provider know if your child develops any chest tightness, chest pain, shortness of breath, or fainting while taking dexmethylphenidate extended-release.
Sudden death, strokes, and heart attacks have also been reported in adults taking normal doses of medications similar to dexmethylphenidate extended-release. These events seem to occur more often in adults with heart problems. If you have heart problems, talk with your healthcare provider about whether dexmethylphenidate extended-release is appropriate for your situation. Also, let your healthcare provider know if you develop any chest tightness, chest pain, shortness of breath, or fainting while taking this medicine.
Dexmethylphenidate extended-release can cause an increase in blood pressure and heart rate. In most cases, the increase is small and does not cause problems. However, there is an increased risk for people with who already have high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, certain irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias), or a recent history of a heart attack.
Dexmethylphenidate extended-release can cause a temporary slowing of growth in children. This slowing of growth is usually small (less that an inch and less than two pounds), and children usually catch up to within normal limits in time.
Dexmethylphenidate extended-release may cause an increase in aggressive behavior in people with ADHD. Let your healthcare provider know of any increased aggressive behavior you experience during treatment with this medicine.
Dexmethylphenidate extended-release can increase the risk of seizures, especially in people who have had seizures before. Talk with your healthcare provider before taking dexmethylphenidate extended-release if you have a history of seizures.
Dexmethylphenidate extended-release can cause blurred vision and other vision problems.
Dexmethylphenidate extended-release is considered a pregnancy Category C medication. This means that dexmethylphenidate extended-release may not be safe to use during pregnancy. Talk with your healthcare provider before using dexmethylphenidate extended-release during pregnancy (see Focalin XR and Pregnancy for more information).
It is not known if dexmethylphenidate extended-release passes through breast milk. Therefore, if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed, be sure to talk with your healthcare provider about this.
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