Methylphenidate HCl

Browse eMedTV's wide range of articles related to methylphenidate hcl including topics such as methylphenidate and d2 receptors, precautions and warnings with methylphenidate, and methylphenidate dosing. Use the search box at the top-right corner of the page to find information about other health topics.

Description of Articles in Methylphenidate HCl

Methylphenidate is a medication that is used for the treatment of ADHD and narcolepsy. This eMedTV segment explains how the drug works, offers precautions to be aware of when taking the medication, lists possible side effects, and more.

Common methylphenidate side effects may include insomnia, nausea, or nervousness. This eMedTV article describes other common side effects seen with the drug and also lists rare side effects and those that may require immediate medical attention.

Methylphenidate is commonly used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. This eMedTV Web page discusses methylphenidate uses in more detail, including information on off-label uses and giving the drug to children.

This eMedTV segment offers methylphenidate dosing guidelines for the treatment of ADHD and narcolepsy. For example, the daily dosage for narcolepsy is usually 20 mg to 30 mg. Instructions for when and how to take the medication are also provided.

Medicines that may cause drug interactions with methylphenidate include clonidine, warfarin, and MAOIs. This eMedTV resource describes the potentially negative effects of these and other interactions and lists other drugs that may lead to them.

This eMedTV page lists various precautions and warnings with methylphenidate, including possible side effects to watch for and information on addiction and abuse. For example, the drug may cause a slowed-down growth rate in children.

Methylphenidate withdrawal may occur if the medication is stopped abruptly. This eMedTV article lists possible withdrawal symptoms and explains how it is more likely to occur in people who are taking doses much higher than recommended.

Methylphenidate is effective in treating ADHD because it increases the binding of dopamine to D2 receptors. This eMedTV article explains the link between methylphenidate and D2 receptors, and discusses the risk of drug abuse with the medication.

Methylphenidate and alcohol may potentially be a dangerous combination. As this eMedTV resource explains, although the exact interaction is unknown, alcohol may potentially intensify the effects of a stimulant like methylphenidate.

Methylphenidate extended release is a drug that is used to treat ADHD or narcolepsy. This eMedTV article outlines the differences between the methylphenidate extended release products and also lists some potential side effects that may occur.