Dexmethylphenidate is primarily used to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.
What is Dexmethylphenidate?
Dexmethylphenidate is a central nervous system stimulant. Its exact mechanism of action has not yet been identified.
How should Dexmethylphenidate be taken?
Dexmethylphenidate is administered orally. It is taken in combination with a treatment program that also includes other methods such as psychological intervention. In case of insomnia, it is advisable to avoid taking dexmethylphenidate too late in the day.
Side effects associated with Dexmethylphenidate
Dexmethylphenidate can increase the risk of heart attack, stroke and sudden death. It may also cause prolonged painful erections and poor circulation in the hands and feet.
Among the other possible side effects of dexmethylphenidate include the following:
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Headache
- Indigestion
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Nervousness
- Stomach ache
- Stuffy nose
- Insomnia
- Vomiting
- Weight loss
It is important to contact a doctor immediately if you experience:
- Rash
- Urticaria
- Itch
- Difficulty breathing
- Tightness in the chest
- Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, throat or tongue
- Joint pain
- Brown or purple spots on the skin
- Unusual hoarseness
- Vision problems
- Pain in the chest, jaw or arm
- Dark urine
- Decreased urination
- Fainting
- Rapid, slow or irregular heartbeat
- Fever, chills or sore throat
- Hallucinations
- Weakness or muscle pain
- New psychological problems or worsening of existing ones
- Weakness in one side of body
- Convulsions
- Severe or persistent dizziness or headache
- Shortness of breath
- Difficulty speaking
- Sudden and severe nausea or vomiting
- Suicidal thoughts
- Tremors
- Uncontrolled muscle movements
- Unusual sweating
- Unusual tiredness or weakness
- Jaundice
Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Dexmethylphenidate
Taking dexmethylphenidate may be contraindicated in case of severe anxiety, agitation or tension, glaucoma, muscle tics, Tourette's syndrome or heart problems.
In addition, the drug should not be taken in case of treatment with MAO inhibitors within the last 14 days.
Before starting treatment with dexmethylphenidate, it is important to tell your doctor if:
- You have any allergies to the active substance, its excipients, or to any other drugs (especially methylphenidate), food and various substances
- You are taking any other medications, herbal remedies or supplements. Mentioning in particular: MAO inhibitors, decongestants, anticoagulants, anticonvulsants, phenylbutazone, SSRIs, tricyclic antidepressants and medications for high blood pressure
- You are suffering (or have suffered) from severe anxiety, agitation or tension, glaucoma, muscle tics, Tourette's syndrome, heart problems, high blood pressure, seizures, hyperthyroidism, chronic fatigue, psychiatric problems or mood problems, or uncontrollable movement in the hands or feet
- You are experiencing (or you have experienced) suicidal thoughts or strange instincts
- You have recently suffered from a heart attack
- You have a family history of cardiovascular problems or heart attacks
- You are planning on undergoing (or you have undergone) an electroencephalogram
- You are suffering (or you have suffered) from alcohol or drug abuse
- You have a family history of Tourette syndrome
- You are pregnant or breast-feeding
It is important to inform physicians, surgeons and dentists of any ongoing treatment with dexmethylphenidate.
The drug can impair the ability to drive or operate hazardous machinery. This side effect can be aggravated by alcohol and certain other medications. It may also induce tolerance and dependence.
If after one month of treatment you do not experience the beneficial effects of the drug, it is necessary to consult with a doctor.
