For What Is the Drug Concerta Used?

Concerta is a drug used in the treatment of Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), which acts as a central nervous system stimulant that is intended to increase attention and decrease hyperactivity in patients with ADHD, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. It is available only by prescription.

Active Ingredient

• According to the manufacturer, Concerta's active ingredient, Methylphenidate HCl, is thought to block the reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine into the presynaptic neuron and increase the release of these monoamines into the extraneuronal space. This process, which is built into an extended-release tablet, is said to help reduce symptoms of ADHD in both adult and child patients. It is available in doses of 18, 27, 36 and 54 mg.

History

• The company now known as Novartis patented methylphenidate in 1954. It was originally used as a potential cure for Mohr's Disease. Beginning in the 1960s, the drug was administered to children to treat hyperactivity, which later became known as ADHD. It is now the most widely prescribed psycho stimulant used to treat the disorder. Concerta itself was approved in April 2000 and it thought to be the most effective type of the drug because of its extended-release tablet.

Other Versions

• Concerta is actually one of the newer versions of Methylphenidate on the market for ADHD treatment. Ritalin is the same drug and is used to treat the same disorder; only it is an instant release version of the drug that some research suggests is not as effective as the extended-release tablets of Concerta. There are generic versions, such as "Methylin" that are available in the U.S. as well. The newest version of the active drug is in the form of a patch called Daytrana.

Side Effects

• Concerta has been linked to possible physical side effects ranging from mild stomach discomfort to reported sudden death in people with heart defects or heart problems, according to the FDA. It has also been reported that patients taking Concerta have experienced increased blood pressure, heart rate, stroke and heart attack while taking the medication.
  Psychological side effects have been reported as well, and the FDA warns to call a doctor if a patient has new or worsening psychological symptoms, such as becoming suspicious, hearing voices or believing things that are not true. Sudden increases in aggressive behavior or worsening of existing conditions are also warning signs.

Who Should Avoid Concerta

• The FDA recommends people who are highly tense or agitated, people with glaucoma, people with Tics or Tourette's Syndrome or a family history of it, an allergy to any of the ingredients, who have heart problems, have mental problems including psychosis, depression or bipolar illness, an abnormal EEG, esophagus, stomach or intestinal problems or children under 6 years old should not take Concerta.