Methylphenidate

Most of these side effects will get better or go away as your child’s body gets used to the medication. Common side effects include:

• Stomach pain, nausea or vomiting – take it after food to reduce the side effects.
• Headache
• Nervousness, not being able to sleep
• Dizzy or light headed – encourage them to stand up slowly from a lying position.
• Loss of appetite – weight loss may occur during the first few months of treatment.

Inform your doctor if the side effects above become severe and bothersome.

 

Rare but serious effects may sometimes occur. Contact the doctor as soon as possible if any of the following are noticed:

• Fast or irregular heartbeat (palpitations)
• Significant mood changes (e.g. depression) or mood swings or changes in personality (e.g. hallucinations)
• Seizures, confusion
• Blurred vision
• Signs of allergic reaction such as rash, itching or hives on the skin, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or other parts of the body, shortness of breath, wheezing or trouble breathing.

The dosage of Methylphenidate should be individualised according to your child clinical needs and responses. Your doctor would initially start a low dose, and then gradually increase to the dose that works best for your child.

Most methylphenidate preparations can be taken with or without food, except for Medikinet® MR. Medikinet® MR must be taken with or after food as it may affect its absorption.

If your child is taking Ritalin® LA, Medikinet® MR or Concerta® ER, it must not be crushed or chewed.

For Ritalin® LA and Medikinet® MR, the capsule may be opened and the capsule contents sprinkled onto a small amount (tablespoon) of room-temperature/cold food (e.g. applesauce or yoghurt), and must be given immediately. It should not be stored for future use.

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take only on your child's regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one.

Keep away from children;#Keep in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight;#