Methylin Warning Dangers

Methylin is a brand name for methylphenidate. Other brands of methylphenidate include Ritalin and Concerta. Methylin is a stimulant that acts on your central nervous system. It's intended to treat ADHD, ADD and narcolepsy. Methylin works by affecting certain chemicals and nerves in your brain that are associated with hyperactivity and impulses. Take Methylin exactly as prescribed. Keep a record of any side effects you experience and discuss them with your doctor.

Side Effects

• Methylin can cause side effects, including nausea, vomiting, mild headache, stomach pain, dizziness, vision problems, sweating, weight loss, insomnia, nervousness and peripheral neuropathy (coldness or numbness in the feet or hands). Talk to your doctor if these side effects bother you. More serious side effects include chest pain, problems breathing, fast or uneven heartbeats, fainting, hallucinations, muscle twitches, purple blotches on the skin, severe headache, tinnitus, fever and blistering skin rash. If you experience any serious side effects, get medical help as soon as possible.

Interactions

• Discuss any other medications or supplements you are taking with your doctor. Methylin can interact with some other drugs, including blood thinners, stimulants, diet pills, decongestants, antidepressants, blood pressure medications, seizure drugs, potassium citrate, sodium acetate, sodium bicarbonate, clonidine, dobutamine and epinephrine.

Pre-existing Conditions

• Certain pre-existing conditions can preclude the use of Methylin. Do not take this medication if you have an overactive thyroid, glaucoma, hypertension, chest pain, heart rhythm disorder, heart failure, a recent heart attack, muscle twitches or Tourette's syndrome. Additionally, Methylin can worsen psychological symptoms, such as agitation and anxiety. Your doctor might need to run tests to determine whether you can safely take Methylin if you have any of the following conditions: history of mental illness, previous suicide attempt, a history of alcohol or drug addiction, congenital heart defect or a seizure disorder. The consequences of using Methylin while pregnant or breastfeeding are unknown.