Metadate CD/Metadate ER

Generic name: Methylphenidate hydrochloride

What is Metadate CD/Metadate ER?

Metadate and other brands of methylphenidate are medications known as stimulants and are used in the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

What is the most important information I should know about Metadate CD/Metadate ER?

Metadate should be an integral part of a total treatment program for ADHD that includes psychological, educational, and social measures. Symptoms of ADHD include continual problems with moderate to severe distractibility, short attention span, hyperactivity, emotional changeability, and impulsiveness.

There are reports of heart and mental problems in patients taking Metadate or other related stimulants. Some of the problems are sudden death in patients with previous heart problems, heart attacks in adults, increased blood pressure and heart rate. Metadate can also cause new or worsening symptoms of behavior problems, bipolar illness, and aggressive or hostile behavior. Call your doctor right away if you or child develops signs of heart problems such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or fainting while taking Metadate.

Excessive doses of Metadate over a long period of time may cause addiction. It is also possible to develop tolerance to the drug, so that larger doses are needed to produce the original effect. Be sure to check with your doctor before making any change in dosage; and stop the drug only under your doctor's supervision.

There is no information regarding the safety and effectiveness of long-term treatment in children. However, slowing of growth has been seen with the long-term use of stimulants, so your doctor will monitor your child carefully while he or she is taking Metadate.

The use of Metadate in children less than 6 years old is not recommended.

Who should not take Metadate CD/Metadate ER?

Metadate should not be taken if you or your child are very anxious, tense, or agitated, have glaucoma, experience tics or have Tourette's syndrome.

Do not take Metadate within 14 days of taking antidepressants called monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), or if you are allergic to anything in Metadate.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Metadate CD/Metadate ER?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Metadate, especially if you are currently taking or have recently taken MAOIs. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have a history of heart problems such as congenital heart defects, heart failure, heart rhythm disorder or recent heart attack, high blood pressure, a personal or family history of mental illness, psychotic disorder, bipolar disorder, depression, suicide attempt, seizures or other convulsion disorders, a history of drug or alcohol addiction, glaucoma, a personal or family history of tics (muscle twitches) or Tourette's syndrome, severe anxiety, tension, or agitation.

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.

Metadate CD

Adults: The recommended starting dose is 20 milligrams (mg) once daily. Your doctor may increase your dose in 10- to 20-mg increments at weekly intervals up to a maximum daily dose of 60 mg.

Children 6 years and older: The recommended starting dose is 20 mg once daily. At weekly intervals, your doctor may increase your child's dose in 10 to 20 mg increments up to a maximum daily dose of 60 mg.

Metadate ER

Adults: These are extended-release tablets that keep working for 8 hours. Your doctor will determine your exact dose.

Children 6 years and older: These tablets keep working for 8 hours, and your doctor will determine the exact dose for your child.

Metadate should not be given to children under 6 years of age.

How should I take Metadate CD/Metadate ER?

Follow your doctor's directions carefully. Metadate CD may also be given by sprinkling the contents of the capsule on a tablespoon of cool applesauce and administering immediately, followed by a drink of water. Do not crush or chew the capsule contents.

Metadate ER tablets must be swallowed whole and never chewed or crushed.

What should I avoid while taking Metadate CD/Metadate ER?

Some people have had visual disturbances such as blurred vision while being treated with Metadate. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert until you know how this medication affects you.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Metadate CD/Metadate ER?

If Metadate 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 Metadate with any of the following: antidepressants, antiseizure drugs, blood pressure drugs, blood thinners such as warfarin, clonidine, guanethidine, MAOIs, and phenylbutazone.

What are the possible side effects of Metadate CD/Metadate ER?

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: inability to fall or stay asleep, nervousness

These side effects can usually be controlled by reducing the dosage and omitting the drug in the afternoon or evening.

More common side effects in children may include: loss of appetite, abdominal pain, weight loss during long-term therapy, inability to fall or stay asleep, abnormally fast heartbeat

Can I receive Metadate CD/Metadate ER if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Metadate 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 Metadate CD/Metadate ER?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the medicine at your next regularly scheduled time. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed dose.

How should I store Metadate CD/Metadate ER?

Store at room temperature in a tightly closed, light-resistant container, and protect from moisture.