What is Azstarys: Uses, Warnings & Interactions

How to take Azstarys

• Follow all the prescriber’s instructions when taking or administering Azstarys. The dose may need to be changed at the start of treatment.

• Please read the Medication Guide that comes with this medicine.

• Take only one dose daily.

• Take the capsule in the morning.

• Swallow the capsule whole with a drink of water or other liquid.

• If swallowing a capsule is difficult, open the capsule and sprinkle the ingredients on two tablespoons of applesauce or ¼ cup of water (50 mL). Swallow the mixture right away. Do not keep the mixture for later.

• Store Azstarys capsules in a child-proof container at room temperature.

What to do if you miss a dose of Azstarys

• Azstarys should be taken in the morning. Ask the prescriber what to do in case of a missed dose.

• Taking a missed dose later in the day may interfere with sleep. 

• Do not take two doses to make up for a missed dose.

Azstarys contraindications

• Azstarys should not be taken by anyone who has had an allergic reaction to methylphenidate or serdexmethylphenidate

Azstarys warnings

• Tell any treating doctor or healthcare professional that you or your child is using Azstaryis.

• The doctor prescribing Azstarys may need to perform regular examinations to monitor side effects, heart health, blood pressure, and the success of treatment. Keep all appointments.

• Tell the prescriber if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or if you have:

  • Any history of heart disease or heart problems

  • A heart defect

  • High blood pressure

  • Circulation problems in the fingers or toes

  • Eye problems, including glaucoma, high eye pressure, or farsightedness

  • Any history or family history of mental health issues, including depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis, or suicide

  • Any history or family history of Tourette syndrome or tics

  • Any history of drug abuse or addiction

• Azstarys can cause serious problems, including:

  • Severe heart problems in people with pre-existing heart conditions

  • Rapid heart rate

  • Increased blood pressure

  • Circulation problems in the fingers and toes

  • Increased pressure in the eye

  • Glaucoma

  • Prolonged or painful erection

  • Growth suppression in children

• This medicine can worsen underlying mental health problems such as mania, psychosis, tics, or Tourette’s.

• For upcoming surgery, tell the surgeon about using this drug. Azstarys may need to be stopped before certain types of anesthetics can be used.

• This medicine can be habit-forming even when taken as instructed.

• Drug abuse is a risk with this medicine. Do not use more than the prescribed dose or use it more often than prescribed. Call the prescriber if the medicine does not seem to be working.

• Azstarys is a federally controlled substance. Selling or giving this medicine to another person is hazardous and illegal.

Azstarys interactions

• Do not use Azstarys if you are using or have used an MAO inhibitor (MAOI) within the last 14 days.

• To avoid possible drug interactions, tell the doctor about all prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, supplements, and herbal remedies being used, particularly:

  • Other stimulants

  • Blood pressure medications

  • Drugs that narrow blood vessels (vasopressors)

  • Medicines that treat depression

  • Seizure medications

  • The antipsychotic drug risperidone

  • The blood thinner warfarin

• Other methylphenidate products, including extended-release versions, cannot be substituted for Azstarys without a new prescription. 

• Tell other healthcare professionals about Azstarys before they prescribe new medications or schedule medical procedures or surgery.

Find more information about methylphenidate interactions to avoid here.