Has your child been prescribed this liquid medication for ADHD? (Methylphenidate) Let's find out exactly what it is.

Has your child been told by the doctor that he or she has Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)? If so, you may have been prescribed a liquid medication called Methylphenidate as a treatment. When you hear about this medication, you may be a little apprehensive and curious. You may have many questions in your mind, such as "Is this good for my child?" and "Will there be any side effects?" That's normal. That's why today we'll talk about this medication simply, clearly, and in a way that you can understand.

What really happens with this medicine?

Simply put, Methylphenidate is a stimulant. Don't be scared by the name. It works by slightly increasing the activity of certain neurotransmitters in the brain. This helps the child focus on one thing and control impulsive, hasty decisions . It's like putting on a pair of glasses to see things clearly. This medicine helps the child's brain better manage their behavior and attention.

Things you need to tell your doctor before starting medication

This is very important . Before your child starts this medicine, you should definitely tell your doctor if you or anyone in your family has any of the following conditions. This information will help your doctor decide whether this medicine is suitable for your child or not.

• Mental health problems: anxiety, panic attacks, other mental illnesses, suicidal thoughts or attempts.
• Heart disease: Any type of heart disease, congenital heart defects, high blood pressure, blockages or thickening of the heart or blood vessels.
• Circulatory problems: If you have problems with blood circulation in your fingers and toes.
• Eye problems: Glaucoma is an eye disease.
• Liver disease: Any type of liver disease.
• Other neurological diseases: seizures, motor tics, or a family history of Tourette's syndrome.
• Past problems: If you have a history of drug or alcohol addiction, if you have had a stroke.
• Thyroid disease: Any disease involving the thyroid gland.
• Allergies: If you have an allergy to methylphenidate or any other medicine, food, or dye.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding.

It is very important for your child's safety to tell the doctor without hiding these things.

How exactly do I use this medicine?

This medicine should be given to the child exactly as prescribed by the doctor, in the prescribed dose.

1. Shake well: The bottle should be shaken well before administering the medicine. Because this is a liquid, particles of the medicine may settle at the bottom of the bottle.

2. Accurate measurement: Use the special plastic spoon or cup that comes with the medicine to measure it. Do not use household teaspoons , as they are not accurate.

3. Time: This medicine is usually given in the morning because it can interfere with the child's sleep at night. Give it every day at the time the doctor tells you.

4. With or without food: This medicine can be given with or without food. However, if you experience stomach upset, it is best to take it after a meal.

5. Don't stop taking the medication suddenly: Don't stop taking the medication suddenly without your doctor's advice.

6. Do not double dose: If you forget to give a dose of medicine, give it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and give the next dose at the scheduled time. Never give a double dose.

7. If you overdose: If you suspect that your child has been given more medicine than you think, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital , or take the child to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.

What are the things to be careful about when using the medicine?

• Regular checkups: Be sure to take your child to the clinic on the days the doctor tells you. The doctor will regularly check things like your child's weight, height, and blood pressure.
• Loss of appetite: Your child may have a slight loss of appetite when starting this medication. This is normal. Instead of feeding them large meals at once, you can try feeding them small meals several times a day . If this continues, tell your doctor.
• Special attention for boys: If a boy has a prolonged or painful erection that lasts more than 4 hours, it may be a serious condition. Seek medical advice immediately.
• Changes in fingers: If you notice sudden sores, numbness, pain, or changes in skin color (pale, blue, or red) in your fingers or toes, tell your doctor immediately.
• Medication Effect: If you feel that the medication is losing its effectiveness over time, or if you feel that the prescribed dose is not enough for your child, do not change the dose of the medication as you feel. Talk to your doctor about it.

Side effects that may occur due to medication

Like any medicine, this one can have some side effects. Not everyone gets them. But it's important to be aware of them.

Other medications that should not be taken with this medicine

If your child is taking any other medications (including vitamins and herbal remedies), you should also tell your doctor. Some medications can interact with methylphenidate. Be sure to tell your doctor if your child is taking any of the following medications:

• MAOIs are antidepressants (e.g. Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan).
• Some medications for blood pressure and heart disease.
• Some medications used for epilepsy (e.g. carbamazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin).
• Medicines that prevent blood clotting, such as Warfarin.
• Some medicines for colds and allergies.
• Beverages and medications containing caffeine.
• Other medications for ADHD, such as atomoxetine.

How to keep medicine safe?

• Keep away from children: It is best to keep it locked away, out of the reach of children and pets.
• Protect against theft: Keep this medicine in a safe place as it can be stolen and used by strangers.
• Disposal: Don't just throw leftover medicine in the trash. Mix it with something like used coffee grounds or cat litter, put it in a tightly sealed container or bag, and throw it away. This will prevent someone or an animal from picking it up and eating it.
• Expiration date: Do not use expired medication.

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