Metadate ER (Cont.)

How Does Metadate ER Work?

Metadate ER is a stimulant, but it can have effects that are opposite from what would be expected of a stimulant. While stimulants (like caffeine) can cause hyperactivity, Metadate ER has a calming effect when used at the doses for ADHD. While it is not known exactly how the medicine achieves this, it is known that it affects certain chemicals in the brain (see Methylphenidate and D2 Receptors).
 
For people with narcolepsy, Metadate ER acts as a stimulant. This helps people to be alert and stay awake during the day.
 
Metadate ER is a long-acting form of methylphenidate, and the effects last about eight hours.
 

When and How to Take Metadate ER

General considerations for when and how to take Metadate ER include the following:
 
  • The medicine comes in tablet form and is usually taken once daily in the morning (taking it later may cause insomnia).
  • You can take Metadate ER with or without food.
  • The tablets must be swallowed whole. Do not chew, crush, or break them.
  • For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. The drug will not work if you stop taking it.
     

Dosing Information for Metadate ER

The dose of Metadate ER that your healthcare provider recommends will vary, depending on a number of factors, including:
 
  • Your age
  • Other narcolepsy or ADHD medications you have tried
  • Other medical conditions you may have
  • Other medications you are currently taking.
     
As with any medication, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
 
(Click Metadate ER Dosage for more information.)
 
(Metadate ER Continued: Page 3)

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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;