What is Methylphenidate LA? Uses, warnings & side effects

Follow all the prescriber’s instructions.

Please read the Medication Guide that comes in the box.

Capsules can be taken with or without food, but take every dose the same way each time.

Swallow the capsule whole with water or other liquids.

If it’s difficult to swallow the capsule:

• Gently open the capsule.

• Sprinkle the pellets on cool applesauce (do not use warm applesauce).

• Swallow the mixture without chewing it. 

• Drink a glass of water. 

Store methylphenidate ER (LA) capsules in a closed container at room temperature.

Take a dose as soon as it’s remembered if it’s still morning.

Do not take a missed dose later in the day. Wait until the next day to take that day’s dose.

Do not take an extra dose to make up for a missed dose.

This medicine is not right for everyone. 

Do not use it if you have had an allergic reaction to methylphenidate.

Tell other doctors or healthcare professionals about methylphenidate treatment. 

• This drug may need to be temporarily stopped before certain types of surgery.

You must visit the prescriber monthly to get refills. Keep all appointments.

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

• Heart problems, including heart disease or a heart defect

• High blood pressure

• Blood circulation problems in the fingers or toes

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

• A personal or family history of mental health problems, including depression, bipolar disorder, or psychosis

• Tourette syndrome, motor tics, or a family history of Tourette syndrome

• Anxiety 

• A history of drug abuse or addiction

Methylphenidate can cause serious adverse effects, including:

• Heart or blood vessel problems, including a heart attack or stroke

• Circulation problems in the fingers and toes

• Hypertension

• High eye pressure and glaucoma

• Prolonged and painful erections

• Slowed growth in children

Mental health issues such as anxiety, mania, psychosis, or motor tics may get worse in people taking methylphenidate.

Methylphenidate can cause dizziness and vision problems. Avoid driving or other risky activities until you know how this drug affects you.

Methylphenidate can cause physical dependence and lead to abuse. Do not use more than prescribed. Call the prescriber if treatment does not seem to be working.

Methylphenidate is a federally controlled substance. Selling or giving this medicine to other people is hazardous and illegal.

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

Before starting methylphenidate, give the prescriber a list of all the drugs and supplements regularly taken, particularly:

• Other stimulants

• Antidepressants

• Blood pressure medications

• Drugs that narrow blood vessels (vasopressors)

• Risperidone, warfarin

Avoid drinking alcohol when taking methylphenidate LA. The alcohol can speed up the drug’s release from the delayed-release portion of the pellets. 

Tell other healthcare providers about methylphenidate before they prescribe new medications or schedule medical procedures that require inhaled anesthetics.