APO METHYLPHENIDATE ER, 54MG, 12H-TABLET

Common uses

This medication stimulates the central nervous system. Typically, it is used for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. It may also be used for narcolepsy (sudden or excessive daytime sleepiness), as well as for other uses. Its effects can be felt within 1 hour.

How to use this medication

This pharmacologic treatment should be an integral part of a global treatment program that could include supportive psychological, educational or other measures.

This medication is typically used only once a day. However, your pharmacist may have suggested a different schedule that is more appropriate for you. Take it regularly and continuously to maintain its beneficial effects.

Important: Follow the instructions on the label. Do not use more of this product, or more often, than prescribed. Chronic abusive use can lead to dependence.

This medication should be swallowed whole. It should not be split, crushed or chewed. You may notice the presence of a whole tablet in your stools. This is only the outer shell; the medication inside has been absorbed.

If you forget a dose, simply skip it and then take the next dose at the regularly scheduled time. This medication may be taken with or without food.

Consuming alcohol may intensify the effect of this product. If you choose to drink alcohol, do so in moderation. Talk to your health care professional to find out exactly how much alcohol you can drink.

Possible side effects

In addition to its desired action, this medication may cause some side effects, notably:

• it may decrease your appetite;
• it may cause sleep disturbances or insomnia;
• it may cause nervousness or anxiety;
• it may delay normal body growth -- however, overall growth is not affected;
• it may increase your heart rate.

Each person may react differently to a treatment. If you think this medication may be causing side effects (including those described here, or others), talk to your health care professional. He or she can help you to determine whether or not the medication is the source of the problem.

Storage information

As with most medications, this product should be stored at room temperature. Store it in a secure location where it will not be exposed to excessive heat, moisture or direct sunlight. Make sure that any leftover portion is disposed of safely. This drug is occasionally sought out by some people for non-medical purposes. Please store in a safe place.

Additional information

Because this medication may affect your ability to perform tasks requiring alertness, such as driving a car, it is advised to wait until you are familiar with the effects of your medication before engaging in these activities.

This medication may interact with other medications or supplements, sometimes significantly. Many interactions, however, may be dealt with by a dosage adjustment or a change in medication schedule. Check with your pharmacist before using this medication in combination with any other medications (including non-prescription products), vitamins or natural products.

General information

When meeting with any health professional, it is important for you to share the following information:

• Your medical history and allergies (medication, food, or other);
• If you're pregnant or want to become pregnant, or if you're breastfeeding;
• If you use tobacco or cannabis or its derivatives, or if you use recreational drugs;
• The names of all the medications you take, whether you take them regularly or once in a while, including over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and natural health products.

It is also strongly recommended that you keep an up-to-date list of all the medications you take and carry it with you at all times. This could be useful if you have to see a health professional or need emergency care.

Keep all your medications out of the reach of children and pets and return any unused or expired medications to the pharmacy for proper disposal.