What Is Concerta Medication?
Concerta is a prescription medication used to treat attention deficit disorder (ADD) and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children and adults. It is typically taken once a day, usually in the morning, and should be taken a half-hour before eating. Because Concerta is an extended-release medication that slowly dispenses medication, the pill should not be crushed or chewed. The active ingredient in Concerta, methylphenidate, is known to be habit forming and is not as effective if it is being abused.
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How It Works
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Concerta is a stimulant that affects the nervous system. Although stimulants are known to lead to hyperactive behavior, the stimulant in Concerta has a calming effect on the body. The precise method by which it works is unknown, but it does affect chemical levels in the brain.
Non-Serious Side Effects
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Some side effects of Concerta are no cause for concern because they do not indicate a potential medical problem. These side effects include nausea and vomiting, loss of appetite, weight loss, difficulty sleeping, nervousness, mild headaches, dizziness, sweating, skin rash, vision problems and numbness or tingling in the feet or hands.
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Serious Side Effects
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Some side effects of Concerta should be reported to your doctor immediately because they could indicate that a complication has developed that may require treatment. Notify your doctor if you experience dangerously high blood pressure characterized by blurred vision, headache, ringing ears, chest pain and irregular heartbeat; aggressive or unusual behavior; hallucinations; muscle twitches; unusual bruising or purple spots on the skin; a fast or pounding heartbeat; and a fever and sore throat combined with a headache and red, blistered skin.
Warnings
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Because of how it works, Concerta is not safe for all people, including those with glaucoma, severe high blood pressure, angina, heart failure or a recent heart attack, an overactive thyroid and severe anxiety.
Drug Interactions
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Concerta is known to interfere with the effectiveness of other drugs, including blood thinners, clonidine, blood pressure medications, seizure medications, certain antidepressants and many other medications. Before taking Concerta, tell your doctor and pharmacist about any other medications you are taking to prevent dangerous drug interactions.
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