Methylin/Methylin ER

Generic name: Methylphenidate hydrochloride

What is Methylin/Methylin ER?

Methylin and other brands of methylphenidate are medications known as stimulants and are used in the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Methylin may help increase attention and decrease impulsiveness and hyperactivity in ADHD patients.

Methylin is also prescribed for the treatment of narcolepsy.

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

Methylin 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 Methylin 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. Methylin can also cause new or worsening symptoms of behavior problems, bipolar disorder, 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 Methylin.

Excessive doses of Methylin 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 Methylin.

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

Who should not take Methylin/Methylin ER?

Methylin should not be taken if you or your child are very anxious, tense, or agitated, have glaucoma, thyroid problems, heart problems or recent heart attack, or experience tics or have Tourette's syndrome.

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

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

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Methylin, 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, epilepsy or other seizure 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.

Methylin

Adults: The average dosage is 20 to 30 milligrams (mg) a day, divided into 2 or 3 doses, preferably taken 30 to 45 minutes before meals. Some people may need 40 to 60 mg daily, others only 10 to 15 mg. Your doctor will determine the best dose.

Children 6 years and older: The usual starting dose is 5 mg taken twice a day, before breakfast and lunch; your doctor may increase the dose by 5 to 10 mg a week. Your child should not take more than 60 mg in a day. If you do not see any improvement over a period of one month, check with your doctor.

Methylin ER

Adults: These are extended-release tablets that keep working for 8 hours. They may be used in place of Methylin tablets and your doctor will determine the best dose.

Children 6 years and older: Your child's doctor will decide if these extended-release tablets should be used in place of the regular tablets.

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

How should I take Methylin/Methylin ER?

Follow your doctor's directions carefully. Methylin tablets should be taken 30 to 45 minutes before meals. Methylin ER tablets must be swallowed whole and never chewed or crushed.

What should I avoid while taking Methylin/Methylin ER?

Some people have had visual disturbances such as blurred vision while being treated with Methylin. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert.

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

If Methylin 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 Methylin 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 Methylin/Methylin 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 Methylin/Methylin ER if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Methylin 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 Methylin/Methylin 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 Methylin/Methylin ER?

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