Dexmethylphenidate Hcl - Drug Information
Generic Name : Dexmethylphenidate Hcl
Pronunciation : dex-METH-il-FEN-i-date
ICD Code : Y50.8 | Therapeutic Classification : Central Nervous System Stimulants
Trade Name(s) :
International - Focalin.
Why is Dexmethylphenidate Hcl Prescribed? (Indications)
This medication is the dextrorotatory enantiomer of methylphenidate, prescribed for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It's extended-release form is a central nervous system stimulant.
When should Dexmethylphenidate Hcl not to be taken? (Contraindications)
Contraindicated in patients with marked anxiety, tension, agitation, glaucoma, tourette's syndrome, during treatment with monoamine oxidase inhibitors, within 14 days following discontinuation of a monoamine oxidase inhibitor and hypersensitivity.
What is the dosage of Dexmethylphenidate Hcl ?
The recommended starting dose is 5 mg/day (2.5 mg twice daily). Dosage may be adjusted in 2.5 to 5 mg increments to a maximum of 20 mg/day (10 mg twice daily).
How should Dexmethylphenidate Hcl be taken?
It comes as a tablet to take by mouth, with or without food.
What are the warnings and precautions for Dexmethylphenidate Hcl ?
* Caution should be exercised in patients with history of high blood pressure, heart problems, abnormal electroencephalograms (EEGs), overactive thyroid, mental illness, suicidal thoughts, any allergy, who are taking other medications, elderly, children, during pregnancy and breastfeeding.* It should not be used in children less than 6 years old.
* It may cause dizziness or drowsiness, do not drive a car or operate machinery while taking this medication.
* Monitor blood pressure, heart function, complete blood cell counts regularly while taking this medication.
What are the side effects of Dexmethylphenidate Hcl ?
Most common- Twitching, loss of appetite, sleeplessness and fast heart rate.♦Body as a Whole- Abdominal pain, blurred vision, slowing growth in children and fever.
Heart- Chest pain, irregular heart beat, palpitations,Increased or decreased blood pressure, increased or decreased pulse and fast heart rate.
Gastrointestinal- Nausea.
Hypersensitivity- Skin rash, hives, fever, joint pain, skin inflammation, redness and bruising.
♦Central Nervous System- Dizziness, drowsiness, seizures and headache.
Blood/lymphatic- Decrease in white blood cells and anemia.
Liver- Abnormal liver function tests and elevated liver enzymes level.
Psychiatric- Depression and aggressive behavior.
Skin- Hair loss.
What are the other precautions for Dexmethylphenidate Hcl ?
* Avoid excess dosage.* It may cause heart attack, stroke and sudden death in patients with heart defects, extreme caution needed in those patients.