Risks of Taking Concerta

Concerta, or methylphenidate, is a central nervous system stimulant used to treat narcolepsy and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Concerta is available by prescription only, and it cannot be refilled without a new written prescription. This medication comes in three different oral forms: tablets, extended-release capsules and extended-release tablets. Concerta is indicated to alleviate the restlessness in adults and children who are overactive. It helps those who cannot focus for long to lengthen their concentration. It helps them become less distracted and helps patients to better control the impulses related to attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

Physical Risks & Pregnancy

Risks of taking Concerta include weight loss, difficulty sleeping, fast heartbeat and stomach pain. Those with certain medical conditions may not be able to take Concerta because of potential health risks. These conditions include alcohol abuse, Gilles de la Tourette's disorder, drug abuse, glaucoma, epilepsy, heart failure, other seizure disorders, tics, hypertension, overactive thyroid, psychosis, or severe anxiety, depression, tension or agitation.

This drug has not been tested on pregnant women, however in animals it has been found to cause problems and birth defects. The drug may pass into breast milk, so those who are nursing should not take this medication.

Children are most susceptible to the risks of Concerta. With long-term use, children are at risk for slowed growth.

Other risks of Concerta include physical dependence, addiction and withdrawal side effects once the medication is stopped.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Concerta include increased blood pressure and fast heartbeat. Less common side effects include uncontrolled body movements, chest pain, hives or skin rash, joint pain and fever. Patients experiencing these side effects should consult their physician as soon as possible. Common side effects that do not require a consultation with a physician include difficulty sleeping, nervousness and loss of appetite. Less common side effects of Concerta that are not considered dangerous include excitement, anger, excitement when feeling and talking, drowsiness, stomach pain, headache, insomnia, irritability, scalp hair loss and nausea. This drug can present dozens of other serious side effects as well.

Drug Interactions

Taking other drugs and medications in conjunction with Concerta could lead to a dangerous interaction. These drugs and medications may include Amantadine, Clonidine, amphetamines, Chlophenianol, appetite suppressants, caffeine, Bupropion, cocaine, asthma medications, Guanethidine, cold/sinus/allergy medications, Pemoline, Nabilone, Pimozide and monoamine oxidase inhibitors. Those taking other stimulants may experience heart palpitations and difficulty sleeping or concentrating.

Dosage Problems

Concerta is a time-released medication, so each pill cannot be broken in half if the dosage is too high. If broken in half, too much of the drug could be released into the body at once, leading to dangerous effects. A patient must obtain a new prescription each time he needs a dosage adjustment. Another dosage problem with Concerta is that if not taken in the early morning, a patient may experience insomnia. This means that if a patient misses his dose, he simply cannot take it that day and will have to go without the medication until the next scheduled dose.

Abuse Potential and Dangers

Concerta poses a high potential for abuse, especially among high school and college students. It is a stimulant, and many abuse this drug in order to concentrate better and to stay awake to study or fulfill other duties related to school. Some abusers will fake ADHD symptoms in order to obtain a prescription of Concerta to get high. Concerta abuse can lead to serious problems such as seizures, tremors, high blood pressure, hallucinations, twitching muscles, coma and even death.