Focalin is a brand name for dexmethylphenidate, a stimulant for the central nervous system called a CNS stimulant that may be prescribed for treatment of ADHD, or attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder. It generally is prescribed for those children who are age 6 or older. According to the Mayo Clinic, Focalin helps to reduce restlessness and increase mental attention. It is available as a pill or capsule.
Non-serious Side Effects
Taking Focalin may create side effects at first that will go away after you have been using it for a while. These only require medical attention if they persist, or if they become overly annoying. These include insomnia, an acidic stomach, bodily twitching, belching, loss of weight, heartburn, pain in the throat, indigestion, an upset stomach, loss of or decreased appetite and nausea.
Serious Side Effects
Focalin also may induce some serious side effects for which you should call your physician immediately. These types of effects may include sudden unconsciousness, a rapid heartbeat called tachycardia, spasms in the legs or arms, an irregular heartbeat or arrhythmia, convulsions, blurred vision and changes in how you perceive distant or near objects.
Overdose Side Effects
Adults generally will be prescribed 10 milligrams per day, and children may be prescribed 5 milligrams per day of Focalin at first. These doses may be increased by a doctor later. If you take more than the prescribed dose, you may get serious overdose side effects. Get emergency medical attention for any of these. They include anxiety, reflexes that are overactive, dilated pupils, nervousness, vision blurring, twitching muscles, consciousness changes, changes in mood, mental changes, discomfort or pain in the chest and unconsciousness. Others may include hallucinations that may be auditory, visual or sensory, mental confusion, restlessness, dizziness, skin reddening of the chest, arms, neck or face, dry mouth, a pounding heartbeat, fainting, euphoria, tremors throughout the body, bradycardia or slowed heartbeat and sweating. There also is the potential for shortness of breath, a fever, seizures, headaches, restlessness, delusions, irritability, light sensitivity in the eyes, hyperventilation, abnormal excitement and vomiting.
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