Dexmethylphenidate

Dexmethylphenidate may be prescribed to help treat symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children and teenagers. In previous clinical studies, children and teenagers with ADHD who took dexmethylphenidate had significant improvement in their ADHD symptoms, compared to children and teenagers with ADHD who did not take the drug. Among the conditions to let your healthcare provider know about before taking this medicine are heart problems, high blood pressure, and any allergies you may have.

Dexmethylphenidate Drug Info

What Is Dexmethylphenidate?

Dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride (Focalin^®) is a prescription medication that is used for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Because dexmethylphenidate is a stimulant and is commonly abused, there are special rules for prescribing the medicine (see Focalin: A Controlled Substance).

(Click What Is Dexmethylphenidate Used For? for more information on uses of dexmethylphenidate, including possible off-label uses.)

Dexmethylphenidate: What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?

You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking dexmethylphenidate if you (or your child) have:

Heart problems of any kind, including heart disease, congestive heart failure, certain irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias), or a recent history of a heart attack
High blood pressure (hypertension)
Mental illness, including bipolar disorder and psychotic disorders (such as schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder)
Seizures or epilepsy
Tourette syndrome
Glaucoma (a condition of the eye)
A history of drug or alcohol abuse
Any allergies, including allergies to foods, dyes, or preservatives.

Also let your healthcare provider know if you are:

Pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant (see Focalin and Pregnancy)
Breastfeeding.

Tell your healthcare provider about all of the medicines you take, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

(Click Precautions and Warnings With Dexmethylphenidate for more information on this topic, including information on who should not take dexmethylphenidate.)

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