Is your child unable to stay in one place? Or is he not paying attention to anything? Or maybe you have these problems yourself. We call this condition Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, or as we all know it, ADHD (Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder). One of the main medications used for this is Dexmethylphenidate. So today, let's talk briefly about this drug, its effects, side effects, and things to be careful about while using it.
What really happens with this medicine?
Simply put, Dexmethylphenidate is a stimulant . In our country, it is most commonly found under the brand name `Focalin XR`. When you hear the word ``stimulant'', some people might think that it will make the child more restless. But in reality, it is the opposite. This drug slightly increases the activity of certain chemicals (neurotransmitters) in the brain that control attention and behavior.
This means that for someone with ADHD:
- Being able to focus on one thing .
- Getting help to control impulsive behavior.
- Being able to sit calmly and get work done .
That means, what this medicine does is give your or your child's brain a little "push" to do its job properly.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking medicine
It is very important to give your or your child's full medical history to your doctor before starting this medication. This medicine may not be suitable for some medical conditions. Be sure to tell your doctor if you or your child have any of the conditions listed in the table below.
| Disease or condition | Why should you inform? |
|---|---|
| Heart disease, heart attacks, or high blood pressure | Because this medication can slightly increase heart rate and blood pressure. |
| Circulatory problems in the fingers and toes | This medication can sometimes aggravate conditions such as Raynaud's phenomenon. |
| Any type of mental illness (e.g., depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder) | This medication may alter the symptoms of some mental conditions. |
| Suicidal thoughts or a family history of such thoughts | Although very rare, this medication can cause mood changes, so it is important for the doctor to be aware of this. |
| A history of drug or alcohol addiction | Because this is a stimulant drug, there is a risk of abuse. |
| If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding | You should discuss the possible effects on the fetus or nursing baby with your doctor. |
How exactly do you use this medicine?
This is an extended-release capsule. That means it's designed to release the medicine throughout the day. So be especially careful about these things when using it.
- Swallow the capsule whole: Swallow the capsule whole with a glass of water. Never break, crush, or chew the capsule. Doing so could result in the entire dose being released throughout the day being absorbed into the body at once, which could be dangerous.
- If swallowing is difficult: If a child has difficulty swallowing, you can carefully open the capsule and sprinkle the sprinkles on top of a tablespoon of cool applesauce . Do not put anything hot on top. Then, have the child swallow the applesauce in one go without chewing. After swallowing, give the child a drink of water. Do not store this mixture; it should be used immediately.
- Take it on time: Take the medicine as prescribed by your doctor, at about the same time every day.
- Do not take two doses at the same time: If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Do not take two doses at the same time for any reason.
Warning: If you think you have taken more than you think, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital or go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital. This medicine is for your own use only. Never share this medicine with others.
Other things that may interact with this medicine
It is essential to inform your doctor about any other medications, vitamins, or supplements you are taking. Some medications can interact with this and cause dangerous conditions.
| Do not take Dexmethylphenidate with these at all. | |
|---|---|
| MAOI medications for depression (e.g. Marplan, Nardil, Parnate). Dexmethylphenidate should not be started until at least two weeks after stopping one of these medications. | |
| Other stimulant medications given for ADHD, weight loss, or insomnia. | |
| These may interact - inform your doctor. | |
| Blood pressure medication | Caffeine (tea, coffee, energy drinks) |
| Medication for depression or anxiety | Blood thinners such as Warfarin |
| Antiepileptic drugs such as phenobarbitone and phenytoin | Some medicines for colds or allergies |
Things to keep in mind when taking medication
- Regular checkups: The doctor should check you or your child regularly. In the case of a child, they will regularly check whether height and weight are growing.
- Attention: This medication may affect your attention. Therefore, avoid dangerous activities such as driving or operating machinery until you know exactly how it affects you.
- Loss of appetite: It is common to experience loss of appetite when you first start taking the medication. This can be avoided by eating small, frequent meals or snacks. If this condition persists, tell your doctor.
- Sleep: Do not take this medication late at night. It may interfere with sleep.
- Special note for men: If you experience a prolonged or painful erection that lasts more than 4 hours, it may be a serious condition. Seek immediate medical attention to prevent permanent damage.
- Changes in the fingers: If you notice sudden sores, numbness, pain, or skin color changes (pale, blue, red) in the fingers or toes, tell your doctor immediately.
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medicine, this can cause side effects, but not everyone gets them. Be aware of the following.
| Side effects that should be reported to your doctor or ETU immediately | |
|---|---|
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| Changes in heart rate | Fast or irregular heartbeat, dizziness, chest pain, difficulty breathing. |
| Changes in mood and behavior | Severe anxiety, agitation, seeing/hearing things that are not there (hallucinations), suicidal thoughts. |
| Symptoms of Stroke | Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm or leg, difficulty speaking, severe headache, vision changes. |
| Usually not serious, but tell your doctor if it persists. | |
| Headache | Difficulty falling asleep |
| Appetite | Weight loss |
| Anxiety, restlessness | Nausea |
Take-Home Message
- This medicine should only be used under the advice of a doctor . Follow the dosage as prescribed by the doctor.
- This is a medicine prescribed for you only. Do not share it with others for any reason . It is illegal and dangerous.
- Tell your doctor about all other medications you are taking and any other illnesses you have.
- If you experience any serious side effects (such as changes in heart rate, severe mood swings) , seek medical advice immediately .
- Keep medicines in a safe place out of the reach of children . Remember that these are drugs that can be misused.
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