Concerta is a once-daily methylphenidate product, commonly known as a stimulant medication, used to elevate ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) symptoms in both adults and children. Successful management of ADHD requires a comprehensive approach including medication such as Concerta, behavior therapy and support to help make changes in daily life.
How Concerta Works
Concerta is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant; to date it is the most commonly prescribed medications to treat ADHD since 1960. Stimulants are believed to enhance the availability of the brain's chemical messengers dopamine and norepinephrine. These messengers play a role in behaviors like attention and movement.
Time Release Advantage
The delivery of methylphenidate from Concerta is what makes it different from every other ADHD medication. Concerta provides patented ascending delivery of methylphenidate, resulting in smooth plasma levels through 12 hours---which helps avoid the peaks and lows of taking multiple immediate-release medications in 1 day. Concerta is available in once-a-day oral administration of 18, 27, 36 or 54 mg.
Improvement of Impulse and Hyperactivity Behavior
In 2008 Dr. Medori and colleagues conducted placebo-controlled trials with adults with ADHD and found improved ability to organize and complete projects. Hyperactivity is found to have been less in patients that struggle with hyperactivity and attention deficit.
Improvement of Focus and Attention
Concerta helps individuals focus on daily tasks as well as on tasks and desires they would like to focus on. Concerta also helps reduce fidgeting, forgetfulness and the tendency to interrupt.
Considerations
Like all ADHD medications, Concerta has side effects. Concerta has a low incidence of insomnia (12.3 percent) and mood changes (1.4 percent). The most common side effects (greater than 10 percent) are dry mouth, nausea, decreased appetite, headache and insomnia. If you are allergic to methylphenidate---the active ingredient in Concerta---or if you have glaucoma, tics, Tourette's syndrome, depression or severe anxiety, do not use this medication.
