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Methylphenidate

Drug Class: Commonly Known As: Category:
Ritalin, Ritalin LA, Ritalin SR, Medikinet MR, Concerta ER

Methylphenidate - Dosage and How to Use

How should Methylphenidate be used?

  • Do not stop taking your medication without checking with your healthcare professional.
  • Most methylphenidate preparations can be taken with or without food, except for Medikinet® MR. Medikinet® MR should be taken with or after food as it may affect the absorption of the medication into the body.
  • For immediate-release preparations, do not take it too late in the evening as it may cause trouble sleeping.
  • If you are taking the modified-release preparations, the capsules/tablets must not be crushed or chewed. For Ritalin® LA and Medikinet® MR, the capsules may be opened and the contents sprinkled onto a small amount (tablespoon) of room temperature or cold food (e.g. applesauce, yoghurt). It must be taken immediately and not stored for future use.
  • Your doctor would start the medication at a low dose, and then slowly adjust the dose according to your response to the medication.
  • For Concerta® ER, the tablet does not dissolve completely after all the medication has been released and sometimes the tablet shell may appear in your stools. This is normal.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Then take your next dose at the usual time. Do not take two doses to make up for the missed dose.

What should I do if I overdose?

Methylphenidate - Additional Information

  • Updated on 7/31/2022 12:00:00 AM
  • Article contributed by PSS National Medication Information Workgroup PSS National Medication Information Workgroup
The information provided is not intended as medical advice. Terms of use. Information provided by SingHealth

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