About methylphe nidate
Central nervous system stimulant
Used for
- Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Usual adult dose
Usually 18–72 mg once each morning; adjusted gradually according to response and tolerability.
Usual dose in children
For ages 6 and older: usually 18–54 mg once each morning; adjusted gradually. Not established for children under 6.
Common side effects
- Reduced appetite or weight loss
- Headache or trouble sleeping
- Stomach pain, nausea, or dry mouth
- Increased heart rate or blood pressure
Important warnings
- May be misused or cause dependence; store securely.
- Avoid with monoamine oxidase inhibitors or within 14 days of stopping them.
- Can worsen serious heart problems or psychiatric symptoms.
- Long-term treatment may slow growth in children.
Pregnancy
May cause fetal harm; use during pregnancy only when the potential benefit justifies the risk.
Breastfeeding
Methylphenidate passes into breast milk in small amounts; effects on nursing infants are uncertain.
Interactions
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors can cause dangerous blood-pressure increases.
- May affect blood pressure medicines and some seizure medicines.
- Serotonergic medicines may increase serotonin-syndrome risk.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.