Focalin

Generic name: Dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride

What is Focalin?

Focalin is a central nervous stimulant used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children.

What is the most important information I should know about Focalin?

Excessive doses of Focalin over a long period of time can produce addiction. It is also possible to develop tolerance to the drug, so that larger doses are needed to produce the original effect. Because of these dangers, be sure to check with your doctor before making any change in dosage. Do not stop the drug without your doctor's supervision.

Who should not take Focalin?

Do not take Focalin if you are sensitive to the drug, or have marked anxiety, tension, and agitation. Focalin can make your symptoms worse.

Do not take Focalin if you have motor tics (repeated, uncontrollable twitches) or a family history or diagnosis of Tourette's syndrome (severe and multiple tics).

Do not take Focalin if you are taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) such as phenelzine or tranylcypromine or within 14 days after stopping this type of medication.

Do not take this drug if you have glaucoma (elevated pressure in the eye).

Focalin should not be used in children less than 6 years of age because it has not been studied in this age group.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Focalin?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Focalin. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medic al history, especially if you have any mental or physical problems. Also, inform your doctor of any drug or alcohol abuse, depression, psychosis, epilepsy/seizures, high blood pressure, heart conditions, glaucoma, or if you or any of your family has a history of tics/Tourette's syndrome.

Also tell your doctor if you or your child is pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or is breastfeeding.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Focalin has not been studied in children under 6 years of age.

If you have never taken Focalin before, the usual starting dose is 5 milligrams (mg) a day. For those who are switching from Ritalin, the starting Focalin dose is half the amount of the Ritalin dose. In either case, the total daily dose of Focalin should be divided into 2 doses taken at least 4 hours apart.

Depending on your response, your doctor may increase the dose by 2.5-5 mg a day, up to a maximum of 20 mg (10 mg 2 times a day). Increases are usually made at weekly intervals.

How should I take Focalin?

Focalin can be taken with or without food. The drug is usually taken 2 times a day, at least 4 hours apart, but your doctor may adjust the schedule depending on your child's response. Take Focalin exactly as prescribed.

What should I avoid while taking Focalin?

Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Focalin may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision. This drug may interfere with your ability to concentrate.

Do not share Focalin with anyone else. Focalin should not be used to prevent or treat normal fatigue.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Focalin?

If Focalin is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Focalin with the following: antiseizure drugs such as phenobarbital, phenytoin, primidone; antidepressant drugs, including MAOIs (phenelzine, tranylcypromine), serotonin reuptake inhibitors (fluoxetine, paroxetine), and tricyclics (amitriptyline, imipramine); blood pressure drugs such as clonidine; cold or allergy medicines that contain decongestants; blood thinners such as warfarin or aspirin; ephedra; and St. John's wort.

What are the possible side effects of Focalin?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: decreased appetite, fever, nausea, stomach pain, increased blood pressure and heart rate, new or worsening behavior and thought problems, aggressive behavior, new psychotic symptoms, slowing of growth

Can I receive Focalin if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Focalin during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Focalin?

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your regular schedule. Never take 2 doses at the same time.

How should I store Focalin?

Store in a cool, dry place in a tightly closed, light-resistant container.