Artige (Methylphenidate Hydrochloride)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Artige Used For?
Artige is a medication that contains methylphenidate hydrochloride, which is used to enhance brain activity. It is primarily prescribed for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy, a disorder characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness.
Primary Uses
Artige is used to treat ADHD in children and narcolepsy in adults.
How It Works
Methylphenidate hydrochloride increases the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, helping to improve attention and reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity.
Good to know: Artige is not considered addictive when used as prescribed.
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How to Take Artige
It is important to take Artige exactly as directed by your healthcare provider. Follow the prescribed dosage and timing for optimal results.
Dosage Instructions
For children with ADHD, the starting dose is 5 mg once or twice daily, which may be increased weekly by 5 mg or 10 mg as needed, with a maximum of 60 mg per day. For adults with narcolepsy, the average dose is 20 to 30 mg daily, also not exceeding 60 mg per day.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's close to your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose. Do not take a double dose.
Important: Never double the dose to make up 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:
- headache
- drowsiness
- dizziness
- sleepiness
- shaking
- vomiting
- mood changes
- restlessness
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- twitching or jerking
- cold or numb fingers or toes
- fits
- very fast heart rate
- chest pain
- thoughts of self-harm
- swelling of the face or throat
Impulse Control Issues
Patients may experience issues with impulse control, including compulsive behaviors such as gambling or spending.
Important Warnings
There are several important safety considerations to keep in mind when using Artige.
Who Should Not Take Artige
Do not use Artige if you are allergic to methylphenidate hydrochloride or any of its ingredients, have anxiety, Tourette's syndrome, glaucoma, heart issues, severe depression, or a history of drug dependence.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Discuss any history of depression, hallucinations, aggressive behavior, heart problems, or substance abuse with your doctor before starting Artige.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Artige should not be taken during the first three months of pregnancy, and breastfeeding is not recommended while using this medication.
Elderly Patients With Dementia: Caution is advised when prescribing Artige to elderly patients, especially those with dementia.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications may interact with Artige, affecting its efficacy and safety.
Grapefruit interaction: Consult your doctor if you are taking any medications that may interact with Artige.
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
- Tricyclic antidepressants
- Alpha 2 agonists
- Oral anticoagulants
- Anticonvulsants
- Antipsychotics
- Phenylbutazone
Alcohol & Driving
Use caution when consuming alcohol or operating machinery while taking Artige, as it may impair your ability to do so safely.
Alcohol
Avoid alcohol while taking Artige, as it can exacerbate side effects.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Be careful when driving or using machinery until you know how Artige affects you, as it may cause dizziness or blurred vision.
Storage
Store Artige tablets in a cool, dry place below 25°C, away from moisture and heat. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose Information
In case of an overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms may include agitation, headache, irregular heartbeat, and confusion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Artige typically takes effect within 1 to 2 hours after taking the dose.
You can take Artige with food, but it is recommended to take it at breakfast or lunch.
Artige is not considered addictive when used as prescribed, but caution is advised for those with a history of substance abuse.
Stopping Artige suddenly can lead to withdrawal symptoms, including depression or increased activity.
It is advised to avoid alcohol while taking Artige, as it can worsen side effects.
Some patients may experience decreased appetite or weight loss while taking Artige.
Elderly patients should use Artige with caution, especially if they have dementia.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but skip it if it's almost time for your next dose.
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.