Concerta is a brand name for the prescription drug methylphenidate that is used to relieve symptoms of attention deficit disorder and attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder. Methylphenidate is a stimulant which also is included in Ritalin, another widely used ADHD treatment. The drug is connected to many side effects, some of which are serious and irreversible.
Warning
By 2006, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has found 16 reports of children's deaths associated with Concerta since the medication was introduced in 2000. Similar reports were found for Ritalin.
Significance
Methylphenidate appears to increase the risk of cardiovascular impairment and heart attacks that result in sudden death. Some children who died had heart problems, such as structural defects, which had not yet been diagnosed.
Psychotic Episodes
The FDA also received over 200 accounts of psychotic episodes associated with methylphenidate, such as violent behavior and hallucinations.
Other Hazardous Effects
Methylphenidate can increase blood pressure, and long-term use inhibits growth in some children.
Facial Tics
A syndrome causing uncontrollable facial tics, called tardive dyskinesia, can be caused by Concerta. Sometimes the tics continue after the child quits taking the medication.
Common Side Effects
The most common side effects are gastrointestinal pain, loss of appetite and nausea. In addition, dry mouth, headache and insomnia are often reported.
Tags: associated with, attention deficit