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ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects attention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. While there are many different treatment options for managing symptoms of ADHD, ADHD medication has been the front line treatment for decades. However, the most effective treatment for ADHD typically involves a combination of lifestyle changes, medication, and therapy.
The most common ADHD medications prescribed for children with ADHD are stimulant medications, because these have been proven to be the most effective in symptom management.
This article will explore a common stimulant medication known as Focalin and discuss how this medication is used to treat ADHD symptoms, the side effects and risks of taking Focalin, as well as questions to ask your child's doctor when considering stimulant medications. Keep reading to learn more!
What is Focalin?
Focalin (generic name: dexmethylphenidate) is a prescription medication that is used to treat ADHD symptoms in both children and adults. It is a stimulant medication that works by increasing certain chemicals in the brain and central nervous system, such as dopamine and norepinephrine.
These chemicals are involved in the regulation of attention and behavior. Focalin is available in both immediate-release (Focalin) and extended-release (Focalin XR) forms. This medication is usually taken by mouth once daily, typically in the morning. In addition, Focalin and Focalin XR is a well-tolerated medication, however, like many medications is can cause some unwanted side effects.
Focalin XR
Focalin XR (dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules) is an extended release medication that is designed to release the medication gradually over the course of the day to provide sustained symptom control.
Focalin and Focalin XR are controlled substances in the US by the FDA and is subject to federal laws and regulations regarding its use and distribution. In addition, Focalin XR has not been studied in children under the age of 6.
How Is Focalin Used to Treat ADHD?
Focalin includes the active ingredient dexmethylphenidate, which is a stimulant that increases the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain's chemical makeup.
Dopamine and norepinephrine are important chemicals in the brain that are known to help people concentrate and pay attention throughout the course of their daily activities. These neurotransmitters play a role in attention, impulse control, and hyperactivity. Low levels of these neurotransmitters are thought to make it harder to focus, which can cause symptoms of ADHD.
When beginning Focalin, make sure to read the medication guide that comes with your pills. The medication guide will include new and updated information about how Focalin should be used in treating symptoms of ADHD.
Dosage
It is important to note that each individual is different and there is no same optimal dose for everyone. The dosage is typically adjusted to how each person responds to the medication and their tolerance for the side effects.
Focalin XR tablets are available in 5mg, 10mg, 15mg, 20mg, 25mg, 30mg, 35mg, and 40mg. Focalin XR can be taken 1 or 2 times each day about 8 to 10 hours apart from each other. However, always remember to follow your Focalin prescription instructions on the back of the bottle.
What Are the Side Effects of Focalin in ADHD Child?
Focalin and Focalin XR are typically well-tolerated medications, however, they do come with potential side effects. The most common side effects of Focalin that are reported in children with ADHD are:
- stomach pain
- appetite loss
- weight loss
- trouble sleeping
- nervousness
- dizziness
- heart palpitations
- increased heart rate
- increased blood pressure
- headache
- increased sweating
- irritability or mood swings
In rare cases, Focalin may cause more serious side effects such as chest pain, trouble breathing, hallucinations, psychosis, mania, behavioral changes, and aggression. It is important to call your doctor immediately and report any unusual symptoms you notice in your child.
It is important to note that these side effects are typically not experienced by individuals who take the medication, and most people tolerate it well. Generally, the most common side effects from taking Focalin are loss of appetite and trouble sleeping.
If you have concerns about the side effects of Focalin, be sure to discuss these with your child's doctor.
Risks
If you are considering Focalin as a medication for your child, it is important to be aware of the potential risks. Some of the risks that are associated with taking Focalin include stomach pain and loss of appetite, cardiovascular effects, sleep problems, nervousness or irritability, and withdrawal effects.
Stomach Pain and Loss of Appetite
When taking Focalin, your child may experience stomach pain and loss of appetite. Having a loss of appetite can lead to significant weight loss, therefore it is important to make sure your ADHD child is eating a balanced diet to maintain a healthy weight.
Cardiovascular Effects
When beginning Focalin, be sure to discuss with your child's doctor any family history of heart or blood pressure problems. Individuals who have structural cardiac abnormalities and other heart problems have experienced stroke, sudden death, heart attack, and high blood pressure while taking this medication.
In addition, be sure to discuss any circulation problems, blood flow problems, or other pre-existing heart conditions with your doctor, as Focalin and Focalin XR can increase blood pressure and heart rate.
With that said, since stimulant medications may increase heart rate and blood pressure, your child's doctor may wish to monitor vital signs closely during Focalin treatment.
Withdrawal Symptoms
Stopping or reducing the use of Focalin can potentially lead to your child experiencing withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms are the side effects that occur when an individual abruptly discontinues a medication that they have been taking for a long period of time.
These symptoms can occur when an individual stops the medication abruptly or reduces the dosage too quickly. The most common symptoms reported that are associated with withdrawal include fatigue, drowsiness, depression, anxiety, agitation, difficulty concentrating, and insomnia.
Abuse and Dependence
Many stimulant drugs, like Focalin and Focalin XR, have the potential for abuse and significant dependence. Focalin can be habit forming, especially in individuals who have a history of substance abuse and addiction.
Therefore, it is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits before starting a stimulant medication, such as Focalin. Regular monitoring will be needed to ensure that the medication is working appropriately and to check for any potential side effects.
Possible Drug Interactions
Stimulant drugs interact with certain medications, therefore, it is important to tell your doctor all medications your child is currently taking before starting Focalin.
The medications Focalin may interact with include:
- Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOI): taking Focalin along with MAOIs can lead to a dangerous increase in blood pressure.
- Antidepressant medications: Focalin can interact with certain antidepressant medications such as tricyclic antidepressants or serotonergic drugs.
- Blood pressure medications: Focalin may interact with blood pressure medications and increase the risk for hypertension.
Be sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist about any other medications your child is taking, including over-the-counter drugs, other prescription medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements, so they can monitor the potential for drug interactions.
Allergic Reaction
Although rare, there is always the potential for an individual to have an allergic reaction to Focalin. Symptoms of an allergic reaction to Focalin include:
- Skin rash or hives
- Itching
- Swelling of the face, lips, or throat
- Shortness of breath or trouble breathing
- Wheezing
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
- Lightheadedness or dizziness
If you believe that your child is having an allergic reaction to Focalin or Focalin XR, it is important to call your doctor immediately.
Talking to Your Doctor
As you think about ADHD medication options that will help treat symptoms of ADHD in your child, you probably have a million questions running through your mind to ask your child's doctor. Before meeting with your child's doctor, consider making a complete list of the questions you have. Some examples include:
- What are the different types of ADHD medications available?
- How do these medications work and what are their potential benefits and risks?
- What is the recommended dosage and frequency of the medication?
- What can be expected in terms of side effects and how can these be managed?
- How long will my child need to take the medication?
- Are there any possible drug interactions with other medications my child is taking?
- Is drug dependence or drug abuse a concern while taking this medication?
- How will the medication be monitored and how often will my child need to receive medical attention?
- How will the medication affect my child's daily routine and activities?
When choosing an ADHD medication for your child, it is important to ask as your doctor as many questions as you feel comfortable asking. Your child's doctor will be able to provide you with the information and support needed to decide if Focalin is right for your child's ADHD treatment.
About
Dr. Carrie Jackson, PhD
