Concerta
® (
methylphenidate extended release) is a prescription medication that is used for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (
ADHD). It is designed to be released slowly over time. Because the medication is released slowly, it can be taken just once a day, eliminating the need to take medication at school or work.
Concerta is manufactured by ALZA Corporation.
Concerta is a stimulant, although it has effects that are opposite from what would be expected of a stimulant. While stimulants (like caffeine) can cause hyperactivity, Concerta has a calming effect. While the exact way Concerta produces a calming effect is not known, it is known that Concerta affects certain chemicals in the brain
(see Methylphenidate and D2 Receptors).
Concerta is a tablet that is released in two stages: the outer part of the tablet dissolves quickly and releases an immediate dose of Concerta. The inner part releases the rest of the medication slowly over time.
There have been several studies looking at using Concerta for
ADHD symptoms. We highlight some of the results of these ADHD research studies below:
ADHD and Children
In one study, children with ADHD who took Concerta had significant improvement in their ADHD symptoms compared to children with ADHD who did not take Concerta. The improvements were reported by teachers who were asked to rate the symptoms of ADHD in the children.
ADHD and Teenagers
In another study, teenagers with ADHD who took Concerta had greater improvements in their ADHD symptoms than teenagers with ADHD who did not take Concerta.
When and How to Take Concerta
Some general considerations for when and how to take Concerta include:
- Concerta comes in tablet form. It should be taken by mouth once a day first thing in the morning.
- It does not matter if you take Concerta with or without food. If Concerta bothers your stomach, try taking it with food.
- Concerta tablets are specially designed to release the medication slowly over time, so it is important to swallow Concerta whole. Do not break, chew, or crush Concerta tablets.
- For Concerta to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. Concerta will not work if you stop taking it.
The dose of Concerta your healthcare provider prescribes will vary depending on a number of factors, including:
- Your age
- Other medications you have tried for ADHD
- Other medical conditions you may have
- Other medications you may currently be taking.
As is always the case, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
As with any medicine, there are possible side effects with Concerta. However, not everyone who takes Concerta will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate the drug well. When side effects do occur, they are often minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
The most common side effects of Concerta include:
- Headaches
- Tics (uncontrollable body movements)
- Upper respiratory infections (similar to the common cold)
- Abdominal pain (or stomach pain)
- Accidental injury
- Insomnia
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite.
Concerta can also cause
high blood pressure. Usually, this increase in
blood pressure is temporary and does not cause any problems. In addition, Concerta can increase the chance of
seizures and can make certain heart conditions and mental problems worse.
(Click Concerta Side Effects to learn about the specific side effects of Concerta, including serious side effects to look out for. You can also read about other possible side effects by going to:
Drug Interactions With Concerta
Concerta can potentially interact with a number of medicines.
Concerta: What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?
You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking Concerta if you (or your child) have:
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about all of the medicines you take, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
People who take too much Concerta may have overdose symptoms that could include:
- Hyperactivity (trouble sitting still)
- Fast breathing
- Confusion
- Fever
- Muscle pains
- Shakiness
- Aggressiveness
- Hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that are not really there).
If you happen to overdose on Concerta, seek medical attention immediately.
Concerta should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture or heat. Concerta tablets should be kept in an airtight container.
Keep Concerta and all medications out of the reach of children.
Concerta: What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?
If you do not take your Concerta as scheduled, take your missed dose as soon as you remember in the morning. If you do not remember until the afternoon, skip the dose; taking Concerta after morning can cause trouble sleeping at night. Do not take a double dose of Concerta.
Concerta tablets are available in four strengths:
- Concerta 18 mg
- Concerta 27 mg
- Concerta 36 mg
- Concerta 54 mg.
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