Focalin XR is the brand name for extended-release dexmethylphenidate, which is a stimulant medication used for the treatment of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children. "Extended release" indicates that it is effective for up to 8 hours, which is useful because a child can take the medication before the beginning of the school day and not need to take another dose until after school. Several side effects of Focalin XR are important to note.
Increased Heart Rate/Blood Pressure
Children on Focalin XR may notice an increase in heart rate as well as an increase in blood pressure. In addition, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently issued an important warning about children who have known heart abnormalities: They may be at risk for sudden death while taking this medication. The warning is based on a study of children involved in car accidents--more children on stimulant medications such as Focalin XR died suddenly, compared to children who were not taking stimulant medication. While it is not necessarily recommended that children stop taking stimulants, it is clear that a child taking Focalin who experiences symptoms such as chest pain or fainting should be seen immediately by a physician.
Abdominal Pain
According to the pharmacology database MicroMedex, about 15 precent of patients taking Focalin XR will experience abdominal pain. In addition, nausea and vomiting have also been reported as possible effects of this stimulant medication on the digestive system. A decreased--or complete lack of--appetite may occur in children taking Focalin XR.
Insomnia and Nervousness
Children taking Focalin XR, may suffer from insomnia and nervousness; these are relatively common effects. Rarely, motor and/or vocal tics may occur; this has been noticed in about 1 percent of patients taking this medication. Other potential nervous system-related side effects include dizziness, jitteriness, restless, headache and fevers.
Growth Suppression
It is possible, though not certain, that Focalin XR use may result in growth suppression in children. Weight loss--perhaps due to lack of appetite--has also been suggested as a possible side effect.
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