Concerta Side Effects
From Pharmacy Drug Guide
Concerta, or methylphenidate hyrdrochloride, is a prescription medication used as part of a treatment plan for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It can also treat narcolepsy, or sudden attacks of sleep. Concerta is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant. A once-daily oral drug that provides time-released treatment, Concerta can minimize or correct common ADHD symptoms such as an inability to concentrate, difficulty focusing on details, and task completion issues.[1]
Concerta side effects vary by patient. The most common side effects for adults include insomnia, reduced appetite, headache, and upset stomach. Among children, stomach pain is most commonly reported. Concerta can also be habit-forming, particularly when abused.
 concerta.net | |
| Brand name for | Methylphenidate |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Alza Company and Ortho-McNeil-Janssen Pharmaceuticals |
| Generic available? | No |
| Uses | Treatment of attention disorders |
| Common side effects | Nausea, headache, insomnia, dry mouth and decreased appetite. |
| Who should not take Concerta | Those allergic to methylphenidate; those with anxiety, glaucoma, Tourette's syndrome, or other tics; children under six[1] |
| Disclaimer | The information provided by PharmacyDrugGuide.com is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Do not take any action based on the information on this page without consulting a physician. |
|
| |
Contents |
Common Concerta Side Effects
The most common side effects of Concerta are nausea, anxiety, dizziness, increased sweating, headache, insomnia, dry mouth, stomachache, decreased appetite, weight loss, and irritability. In clinical trials, some patients taking the medication experienced mood changes.[1]
Inactive portions of the drug may be viewable in a patient's stool, resembling a pill. This is not cause for concern, and does not mean that the active ingredient was not fully absorbed.[2]
Dangerous but less common side effects of Concerta are nervousness, blurred vision, irritability, and a feeling of being lightheaded. These adverse reactions require medical assistance.[2]
Rare side effects for the medication include a chronic sore throat; fever; bruising or bleeding easily; slowing of growth in children; seizures; and blockage of the stomach, esophagus, or small or large intestine. These symptoms should be reported immediately to the prescribing physician.[3][4]
Concerta Coupons
Concerta Allergic Reactions
Severe allergic reactions are not common with Concerta, but symptoms that require immediate medical attention can include a rash, severe dizziness, itching, swelling and difficulty breathing.[3]
Concerta contains the active ingredient methylphenidate, as well as inactive ingredients that could potentially cause allergic reactions. The inactive ingredients are: butylated hydroxytoluene, carnuba wax, cellulose acetate, hypromellose, lactose, phosphoric acid, poloxamer, polyethylene glycol, polyethylene oxides, povidone, propylene glycol, sodium chloride, stearic acid, succinic acid, synthetic iron oxides, titanium dioxide, and triacetin.[4]
Concerta Precautions and Warnings
- When first taking Concerta, the manufacturer recommends that patients not operate hazardous machines or vehicles as the medicine may impair some individuals.[1]
- Patients with a history of significant anxiety, bi-polar disorder, seizures, intestinal narrowing, Tourette's syndrome or heart problems are advised not take the medication. Additionally, Concerta is not approved for children under the age of six.[1]
- Concerta may not be a good fit for patients with a history of drug abuse, as they are more likely to take more than the recommended dosage of this drug which can lead to behavioral problems and/or addiction.[3]
- Concerta can cause heart-related problems, or even sudden death in patients with pre-existing heart conditions or defects. There is also a risk of stroke and heart attack in adults, along with increased blood pressure and heart rate.[4]
- Concerta and similar drugs can cause or exacerbate psychiatric issues. These include behavior and thought problems, bipolar illness, hostility or aggressive behavior or hostility. Children taking Concerta have an increased risk of new psychotic symptoms such as audio hallucinations, believing things that are not true, becoming suspicious, or developing manic symptoms.[4]
- Concerta can affect physical development in children. Experts recommend monitoring height and weight to help ensure that growth is not stunted by the drug.[2]
- Concerta is not recommended for patients over the age of 65. Safer treatment options are available to those in this age group.[2]
Also See: Concerta Coupons, Vyvanse Coupons, Adderall XR Coupons, Adderall Side Effects, Kapvay, Strattera Coupons, Seroquel Side Effects
|
|
|
|
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 http://www.concerta.net/adult/adhd-treatment-with-concerta-index.html
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/meds/a682188.html
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 http://www.webmd.com/drugs/drug-19857-concerta.aspx?drugid=19857&drugname=concerta
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 4.3 http://www.fda.gov/downloads/Drugs/DrugSafety/ucm088575.pdf
