Concerta (Methylphenidate Hydrochloride)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Concerta Used For?
Concerta is a medication that helps increase attention and reduce impulsiveness and hyperactivity in individuals diagnosed with ADHD. It is part of a broader treatment plan that may include psychological and educational support.
Primary Uses
Concerta is primarily used to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
How It Works
Concerta works as a stimulant that enhances focus and decreases impulsive behaviors.
Good to know: Concerta is not considered addictive when used as prescribed.
Continue Reading
Sign in to access the complete medication guide including dosage, side effects, warnings, and more.
How to Take Concerta
It is important to take Concerta exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
Dosage Instructions
For children and adolescents, the starting dose is one 18 mg modified release tablet taken in the morning. For adults, the starting dose can be either 18 mg or 36 mg taken in the morning. The maximum daily dose is 54 mg for children and 72 mg for adults.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose, wait until the next morning to take your next dose. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Important: Never double the dose to compensate for a missed one.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- Loss of appetite
- Stomach pain
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Dry mouth
- Indigestion
- Constipation
- Weight loss
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Difficulty sleeping
- Dizziness
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Aggression
- Confusion
- Mood swings
- Severe anxiety
- Tics
- Seizures
- Visual disturbances
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
Impulse Control Issues
Concerta may lead to impulse control issues, including compulsive behaviors.
Important Warnings
There are several important considerations to keep in mind while using Concerta.
Who Should Not Take Concerta
Do not use Concerta if you are allergic to methylphenidate or any of its ingredients, have glaucoma, severe heart problems, high blood pressure, severe depression, or a history of substance abuse.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Discuss any history of seizures, heart problems, mental health issues, or if you have tics or Tourette's syndrome with your doctor.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Consult your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, as well as if you are breastfeeding, since Concerta can affect your baby.
Elderly Patients With Dementia: Concerta is not recommended for use in elderly patients over 65 years.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications may interact with Concerta, affecting its efficacy.
Grapefruit interaction: Avoid grapefruit products as they may affect how Concerta works.
- Monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors
- Medications that increase blood pressure
- Antidepressants such as venlafaxine, sertraline, amitriptyline, and imipramine
- Antihypertensive medications
- Seizure medications like phenytoin and valproate
- Antipsychotic medications such as olanzapine and risperidone
Alcohol & Driving
Be cautious about alcohol consumption and operating machinery while taking Concerta.
Alcohol
Inform your doctor if you consume alcohol, as it may alter how Concerta works.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Exercise caution when driving or using machinery until you know how Concerta affects you.
Storage
Store Concerta in a cool, dry place below 25°C and keep the container tightly closed.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical help. Symptoms may include vomiting, agitation, hallucinations, and irregular heartbeat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Concerta typically starts to work within 30 to 60 minutes after taking it.
Concerta can be taken with or without food.
Concerta is not considered addictive when used as prescribed.
Stopping Concerta suddenly may lead to a return of symptoms or withdrawal effects; consult your doctor before making any changes.
You should inform your doctor if you consume alcohol, as it may affect how Concerta works.
Weight loss is a common side effect of Concerta, not weight gain.
Concerta is not recommended for patients over 65 years due to a lack of studies in this age group.
If you miss a dose, wait until the next morning to take your next dose; do not double up.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.