Concerta and Pregnancy
From Pharmacy Drug Guide
Concerta (methylphenidate) is a prescription medication used to control the symptoms of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults and children over the age of six.[1] It limits the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. Concerta is a Schedule II controlled substance which, when abused, has the potential to cause dependence.
Concerta has been rated as Pregnancy Category C by the FDA, which advises women to only use the drug if the benefits outweigh the potential risks. Adequate and well-controlled studies have not been performed to determine if Concerta is safe to use during pregnancy.
Concerta is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant that comes in the form of a long-acting extended-release tablet. It is used as part of a program to control the symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).[1] Children with ADHD have more difficulty following directions, staying focused, or sitting still without fidgeting or squirming than other children of the same age. Adults may find they have poor concentration or a short attention span, they may be disorganized or forgetful, and they may have difficulty finishing projects or interacting with others.[2]
 Flickr: TheDarkThing (William Ross) | |
| Brand name for | Methylphenidate |
|---|---|
| Used for | Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) |
| Pregnancy Risk Factor | Category C (possibly unsafe) |
| Label instructions | Patients should tell their doctor if they are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.[2] |
| Warnings | Concerta has not been adequately tested to determine if it safe to use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.[3] |
| 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 |
Concerta for Pregnant Women
Concerta may be safe for pregnant women, but further research needs to be conducted in order to confirm this. Concerta has been studies in rabbits, and caused some birth defects. Still, animal testing does not accurately report the effects of drugs among humans, as animal bodies operate differently.
Patients who are on Concerta are advised to discuss the issue with their doctors before becoming pregnant in order to compare the potential risks with the benefits. The same is true for pregnant women who are considering starting treatment with the drug.[4]
Concerta and Pregnancy Category C
Concerta is classified as Category C, meaning it has not been adequately tested for safety among pregnant women. This category is the default for all medicines that have not been studied with pregnancy. Concerta may be prescribed for pregnant patients if it is determined that the benefits outweigh the risks. Some animal studies suggest that Concerta may be safe when used at therapeutic doses.[3]
Concerta and Breastfeeding
Since there are insufficient human studies available, it is currently unknown if Concerta is found in the milk of breastfeeding mothers. For this reason, and because many medications are excreted in breast milk, the manufacturer recommends that caution be used when administering Concerta to women who are breastfeeding. One animal study suggests that Concerta is found in the milk of lactating animals.[3]
Concerta Coupons
Also See: Concerta Side Effects, Concerta Coupons, Concerta Free Samples, Concerta Patient Assistance Programs, Drugs and Pregnancy, Adderall, Kapvay, Ritalin Side Effects, Dextrostat Side Effects,
|
|
|
|
