What is focalin 5mg?

Focalin 5mg: Dexmethylphenidate Hydrochloride Oral Tablet

Table of Contents:

- What is Focalin?

- What is Dexmethylphenidate Hydrochloride?

- How does Focalin work?

- What is Focalin 5mg used for?

- What are the possible side effects of Focalin 5mg?

- Dosage

- Precautions

- Interactions

- Overdose

What is Focalin?

Focalin is a brand name for dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride, a prescription medication used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It belongs to a class of drugs called stimulants, also known as central nervous system stimulants.

What is Dexmethylphenidate Hydrochloride?

Dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride is the active ingredient in Focalin. It is a white to off-white, crystalline powder that is slightly soluble in water and freely soluble in alcohol. Dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride exists as a racemic mixture of two enantiomers, d-methylphenidate and l-methylphenidate, with d-methylphenidate being the more active isomer.

How does Focalin work?

Focalin works by increasing the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, such as dopamine and norepinephrine. These neurotransmitters are involved in attention, focus, and motivation, so increasing their levels can help improve symptoms of ADHD.

What is Focalin 5mg used for?

Focalin 5mg is used to treat ADHD in children and adolescents aged 6 to 17 years. It is typically taken once or twice daily, with the initial dose usually starting at 5mg once daily. The dose may be gradually increased based on the individual's response and tolerability up to a maximum of 20mg per day.

What are the possible side effects of Focalin 5mg?

The most common side effects of Focalin 5mg include:

- Headache

- Stomach pain

- Nausea

- Vomiting

- Loss of appetite

- Insomnia

- Irritability

- Increased sweating

Dosage

* Children 6 to 12 years: The recommended starting dose is 5 mg once or twice daily. The dose may be adjusted in increments of 5 mg, at intervals of not less than one week, to a maximum of 20 mg per day.

* Adolescents 13 to 17 years: The recommended starting dose is 5 mg or 10 mg twice daily. The dose may be adjusted in increments of 5 mg or 10 mg, at intervals of not less than one week, to a maximum of 20 mg twice daily.

Precautions:

* Focalin should be used with caution in patients with a history of heart problems, high blood pressure, seizures, or mental health disorders.

* Focalin may cause addiction or dependence, so it should only be used as directed by a doctor.

* Focalin may also affect the growth of children and adolescents, so it should be used with caution in this population.

Interactions:

Focalin may interact with a number of other drugs, including:

- Blood thinners

- Antidepressants

- Antipsychotics

- Seizure medications

- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)

It is important to inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking before starting Focalin.

Overdose

An overdose of Focalin can cause serious side effects, including:

- Seizures

- Heart problems

- Stroke

- Death

If you think someone has overdosed on Focalin, call 911 immediately.

Conclusion

Focalin 5mg is a prescription medication used to treat ADHD in children and adolescents aged 6 to 17 years. It works by increasing the