Patients over the age of 6 who have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder may be prescribed a medication called Focalin to help manage ADHD symptoms. Focalin, or dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride, is a type of central nervous system stimulant that helps regulate specific chemicals within the brain that are responsible for controlling mood and behavior.
Stomach Upset
Patients taking Focalin can develop symptoms of stomach upset as a side effect of treatment. In clinical trials for this medication, almost 10 percent of Focalin-treated patients reported experiencing nausea as a side effect, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Additional stomach-related side effects can include stomach pain or decreased appetite, which may lead to weight loss in certain patients. Eating a small snack or meal before taking a dose may help limit the occurrence of these side effects.
Mood or Behavioral Changes
Unusual mood or behavioral changes may arise as a side effect of Focalin treatment in certain patients. Depression, aggressive behavior, anxiety, persistent crying, irritability or hostility can occur as a result of Focalin treatment, according to Drugs.com, a peer-reviewed drug information website for consumers. These side effects can contribute to poor performance in school or at work and may have a negative effect on personal relationships. Patients who develop any of these mood or behavioral changes should seek medical care immediately.
Headache, Dizziness or Blurred Vision
Treatment with Focalin can lead to vision changes in certain patients, warns PDR Health, a medical information resource established by the publishers of the Physicians' Desktop Reference. Blurred, cloudy or double vision may occur in conjunction with headache symptoms or sensations of dizziness. Patients who experience dizziness should remain seated until the episode passes to prevent further injury from tripping or falling while walking.
Heart Rate or Blood Pressure Changes
Significant heart rate or blood pressure changes can occur in certain patients taking Focalin. Rarely, sudden death has been reported in both children and adults receiving treatment with central nervous system stimulants such as Focalin, warn FDA health officials. An increased or abnormal heart rate caused by Focalin can be serious and should be immediately reported to a doctor to ensure appropriate treatment is received.
Delayed Growth
Children who take Focalin can experience delayed growth as a side effect of treatment. An affected child's body weight or height may be lower than average when compared to healthy children within her age group. The potential for growth delays should be discussed with a pediatrician before a child begins taking Focalin.
Addiction
The use of Focalin can be addictive, warns the FDA. To prevent addiction, be sure to only take this medication at the frequency and dosage prescribed by a doctor.
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