Precautions and Warnings With Dexmethylphenidate

There are a number of precautions and warnings with dexmethylphenidate to be aware of. For example, dexmethylphenidate can cause an increase in blood pressure and heart rate in some people, as well as cause a temporary slowing of growth in children. A few other dexmethylphenidate precautions and warnings include potential drug interactions, the safety of taking dexmethylphenidate if you have a history of heart problems, and the risk of becoming dependent on the drug.

Dexmethylphenidate Drug Info

Dexmethylphenidate: What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?

You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking

dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride (Focalin^®) if you 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
Breastfeeding.

It is important to also tell your healthcare provider about all of the medicines you take, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

(Precautions and Warnings With Dexmethylphenidate Continued: Page 2)