Focalin XR and Alcohol

Although there is no specific interaction between Focalin XR and alcohol, there are several reasons that you may want to avoid combining the two. Taking Focalin XR may affect your ability to drive or operate machinery -- and drinking alcohol may intensify these effects. If you have been prescribed Focalin XR, it may be a good idea to avoid alcohol until you know how the Focalin XR affects you. People with a history of drug or alcohol abuse should probably avoid Focalin XR, as they may be more likely to abuse the medication.

 

Focalin XR and Alcohol: An Overview

Focalin XR® (dexmethylphenidate extended-release) is a prescription medication licensed to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children, teenagers, and adults. Although there is no specific interaction between Focalin XR and alcohol, there are some reasons why you may want to avoid the combination.
 

Focalin XR and Alcohol Interaction

Stimulants such as Focalin XR may affect your ability to perform tasks that require complete concentration, such as driving, operating machinery, or piloting an airplane, especially during the first few weeks of treatment. Alcohol could intensify these effects, and it may be a good idea to avoid alcohol until you know how Focalin XR affects you. It is never a good idea to mix alcohol with a medication that you have never taken before (or that has not been prescribed specifically for you).
 
It is also important to note that people who have problems with alcohol abuse should probably avoid Focalin XR. Focalin XR is a stimulant and can be abused (see Focalin XR Abuse). People who have problems with drug abuse or alcohol abuse may be more likely to abuse Focalin XR.
 

Focalin XR and Alcohol: A Summary

Although there is no specific interaction between Focalin XR and alcohol, it is a good idea to avoid alcohol until you know how Focalin XR affects you. Taking Focalin XR with alcohol might affect your ability to drive or operate heavy machinery. Also, it is usually not a good idea to take Focalin XR if you have a history of drug or alcohol abuse.
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;