Methylphenidate
Pronounced
"METH-il-FEN-i-date"
Uses
This medication is used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder - ADHD. It works by changing the amounts of certain natural substances in the brain. Methylphenidate belongs to a class of drugs known as stimulants. It can help increase your ability to pay attention, stay focused on an activity, and control behavior problems. It may also help you to organize your tasks and improve listening skills.
How to Use This Medication
Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start taking methylphenidate and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually once daily in the morning. You may take this medication with or without food, but it is important to choose one way and take this medication the same way with every dose. Taking this medication late in the day may cause trouble sleeping (insomnia).
Keep the medication in the original package until you are ready to take a dose. Dry your hands before handling the medication. Peel back the foil layer of the blister pack to remove a tablet. Do not push the tablet through the foil because it may get damaged. Place the tablet on your tongue, allow it to dissolve, and swallow with your saliva. You do not need to take this medication with water or other liquid. Do not crush or chew the tablet.
The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Your doctor may direct you to gradually increase or decrease your dose. Also, if you have used it for a long time, do not suddenly stop using this drug without consulting your doctor.
Take this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day.
If you suddenly stop using this medication, you may have withdrawal symptoms (such as depression, suicidal thoughts, or other mental/mood changes). To help prevent withdrawal, your doctor may lower your dose slowly. Withdrawal is more likely if you have used methylphenidate for a long time or in high doses. Tell your doctor or pharmacist right away if you have withdrawal.
When this medication is used for a long time, it may not work as well. Talk with your doctor if this medication stops working well.
Though it helps many people, this medication may sometimes cause addiction. This risk may be higher if you have a substance use disorder (such as overuse of or addiction to drugs/alcohol). Take this medication exactly as prescribed to lower the risk of addiction. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better or if it gets worse.
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Information expires December 2025.