Concerta, or Methylphenidate is a medication in a classification of drugs known as a central nervous system stimulants. According to Drugs.com, it affects chemicals in the brain and nerves that contribute to hyperactivity and impulse control. Concerta treats attention deficit disorder, ADD, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, ADHD, and narcolepsy--falling asleep suddenly. There are some side effects of Concerta that patients should discuss with their doctor.
Gastrointestinal Discomfort
Patients may experience gastrointestinal discomfort while taking Concerta. Symptoms can include stomach pain and discomfort, nausea, vomiting and loss of appetite. These symptoms may be temporary until the body adjusts to daily therapy with Concerta. The experts at Drugs.com suggest that patients take Concerta 30 minutes prior to eating. Eating a bland diet with smaller meals more frequently may help to alleviate gastrointestinal distress. A physician should be consulted if severe vomiting and loss of appetite occurs. It may lead to the development of dehydration and electrolyte imbalance, which can be dangerous.
Insomnia
According to Drugs.com, patients taking Concerta may experience insomnia. They may experience difficulty falling or staying asleep. Some natural methods to help fall asleep include taking a warm bath, decaffeinated herbal tea, massage, meditation, and warm milk. Patients should consult their physician if their insomnia becomes intolerable and begins to affect their daily lifestyle. They may consider one of several prescription medications available for the treatment of insomnia.
Headache, Dizziness, and Vision Problems
Concerta may cause headache, dizziness and vision problems, reports Drugs.com. These side effects may diminish over time as the body adjusts to this medication. Patients should use extreme caution while driving or operating heavy machinery, which may prove dangerous until they know how Concerta will affect them. If recommended by a physician, the use of an over-the-counter pain reliever such as acetaminophen may be helpful for the treatment of headache pain and discomfort. A physician should be notified if headache, dizziness or vision problems become severe.
Stuffy Nose
According to the Mayo Clinic website, MayoClinic.com, patients may experience a stuffy nose while taking Concerta. The use of a saline nasal wash or spray may prove helpful at alleviating nasal congestion. Sinus pressure and pain, fever or yellow-green tinged nasal discharge can indicate the development of a sinus infection, which may require treatment with an antibiotic. Users should consult their physician if nasal symptoms become severe.
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