Neurological Side Effects of Concerta

Concerta, or methylphenidate, is a prescription drug used in the treatment of attention deficit disorder (ADD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Concerta is available for both adults and children. It should not be prescribed for children under 6 years old. Concerta may cause neurological side effects.

Common Side Effects

The most common neurological side effects of Concerta are talkativeness, insomnia, hyperactivity and restlessness.

Life-Threatening Side Effect

The use of Concerta could result in seizures, which are life-threatening.

Other Side Effects

Other neurological side effects are headache, toxic psychosis, dizziness and drowsiness. Akathisia (anxiety and restlessness) and dyskinesia (involuntary movements) are additional side effects.

Contraindications

Concerta can worsen or mask the symptoms of Gilles de la Tourette's syndrome. Those with anxiety, hypersensitivity, anorexia nervosa, glaucoma, tartrazine dye hypersensitivity or a history of Tourette's syndrome should not take Concerta.

Precautions

When prescribing Concerta, pregnancy, breastfeeding, depression, drug abuse, seizures and hypertension are considered precautions.

References

• Concerta
• Mosby's 2009 Nursing Drug Reference; Linda Skidmore-Roth; 2009

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