Concerta, the brand name for the generic drug methylphenidate, is a prescription medication indicated to alleviate symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in patients between the ages of 6 and 65. This medication is a type of central nervous system stimulant that works by regulating the levels of specific chemicals within the brain. Patients should discuss potential Concerta risks with a doctor or pharmacist before beginning treatment.
Side Effects
Use of Concerta can cause side effects in treated patients, warns McNeil Pediatrics, the manufacturer of this medication. These side effects can include stomach upset symptoms, including nausea, stomach pain, decreased appetite or weight loss. Certain patients can experience dry mouth or excessive sweating, which may contribute to increased thirst or difficulty sleeping. Additionally, patients taking Concerta may appear unusually anxious or irritable during treatment. These side effects are typically temporary and may progressively subside with continued use of Concerta. Children taking this medication should be monitored by a medical professional, as Concerta is associated with height and weight growth delays in these patients. Patients who develop severe side effects during Concerta treatment, such as seizures or blurred vision, should seek medical care immediately.
Cardiac Complications
Children or adolescents who have preexisting heart-related abnormalities are at an increased risk of experiencing serious cardiac complications while taking Concerta. Sudden death has occurred in young patients taking central nervous system stimulants, such as Concerta, warn health professionals with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Additionally, heart attack, stroke and sudden death have been reported in certain adult patients following treatment with central nervous system stimulants. In order to avoid these severe cardiac risks, patients with known heart problems should not take Concerta unless a doctor recommends otherwise. Patients who develop any signs of cardiac problems, such as chest pain, breathing difficulties or fainting, while taking Concerta require prompt medical attention.
Mood or Mental Changes
Patients taking Concerta may be at risk of experiencing sudden or significant mood or mental changes during treatment, reports McNeil Pediatrics. These changes, which can include aggressive behavior, hallucinations, manic symptoms or thought and behavioral problems, should be discussed with a medical professional immediately.
Medication Interactions
Certain types of medications, such as brofaromine, clorgyline, furazolidone and iproniazid, should not be taken in conjunction with Concerta due to an increased risk of side effects, warns Drugs.com, a peer-reviewed drug information website. Patients should discuss all current medications with their doctor before beginning treatment with Concerta.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Risks
The use of Concerta during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been clinically evaluated in women, reports Drugs.com. Unless otherwise directed by a doctor, pregnant or breastfeeding women should not use Concerta because the effects the medication may have on a developing infant are unknown.
Dependence
Medical experts with the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists warn that the use of Concerta can be habit-forming. To avoid becoming dependent upon this medication, patients should only take Concerta as prescribed by a doctor. Additionally, patients should not stop taking Concerta unless directed to by a doctor.
