What precautions are there for dexmethylphenidate (Focalin)?
This question relates to a prescription drug. The answers below are not intended to replace discussions with your doctor. Please contact your healthcare provider for any prescription drug questions.
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Stacy Wiegman answered:Your doctor and pharmacist should discuss several precautions before you take dexmethylphenidate (Focalin, Focalin XR). These include:
- Talk to your doctor if you think you are allergic to dexmethylphenidate or other stimulants.
- Make sure you tell your doctor and pharmacist all prescription drugs and nonprescription substances you are taking, including vitamins, aspirin any dietary supplements.
- Dexmethylphenidate may interact with other drugs, including any of the monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors, including isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam, Zelapar) and tranylcypromine (Parnate). Other drugs include anticoagulants (also known as blood thinners) such as warfarin (Coumadin), other tricyclic antidepressants like amitriptyline, clonidine (Catapres), decongestants like pseudoephedrine (used in cold and cough medications), guanabenz, guanfacine, any high blood pressure medication, seizure drugs like Phenobarbital or phenytoin (Dilantin), the Parkinson's drug methyldopa (Aldomet) and other antidepressants called the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like fluoxetine (Prozac, Sarafem) or the antidepressant venlafaxine (Effexor).
- Make sure you tell your doctor if you have glaucoma, Tourette's syndrome, thyroid problems, seizures, anxiety, or heart conditions including arrhythmias. Tell your doctor if you have any mental illness, like depression.
- Make sure you tell your doctor about your plans to get pregnant, if you are currently pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding.
Your doctor and pharmacist should discuss several precautions before you take dexmethylphenidate (Focalin, Focalin XR). These include: Talk to your doctor if you think you are allergic to dexmethylphenidate or other stimulants. Make sure you... More
