DEXMETHYLPHENIDATE HCL ER (Generic for FOCALIN XR)

Take this medication by mouth with a glass of water. Take it as directed on the prescription label at the same time every day. Do not crush, cut, or chew this medication. Swallow the capsules whole. You may open the capsule and put the contents in 1 tablespoon of cool applesauce. Do not put it on warm applesauce or this may result in improper dosing. Swallow the medication and applesauce right away. Do not chew the medication or applesauce. Drink some fluids (water, milk, or juice) after taking the medication with applesauce. You can take this medication with or without food. Do not take your medication more often than directed.
A special MedGuide will be given to you by the pharmacist with each prescription and refill. Be sure to read this information carefully each time.
Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. While it may be prescribed for children as young as 6 years for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. Tell your care team if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse.
This medication requires a new prescription from your care team every time it is filled at the pharmacy.
This medication can be abused and cause your brain and body to depend on it after high doses or long term use. Your care team will assess your risk and monitor you closely during treatment.
Long term use of this medication may cause your brain and body to depend on it. You may be able to take breaks from this medication during weekends, holidays, or summer vacations. Talk to your care team about what works for you. If your care team wants you to stop this medication permanently, the dose may be slowly lowered over time to reduce the risk of side effects.
Tell your care team if this medication loses its effects, or if you feel you need to take more than the prescribed amount. Do not change your dose without talking to your care team.
Do not take this medication close to bedtime. It may prevent you from sleeping.
Loss of appetite is common when starting this medication. Eating small, frequent meals or snacks can help. Talk to your care team if appetite loss persists. Children should have height and weight checked often while taking this medication.
Tell your care team right away if you notice unexplained wounds on your fingers and toes while taking this medication. You should also tell your care team if you experience numbness or pain, changes in the skin color, or sensitivity to temperature in your fingers or toes.
Contact your care team right away if you have an erection that lasts longer than 4 hours or if it becomes painful. This may be a sign of a serious problem and must be treated right away to prevent permanent damage.
If you are going to need surgery, a MRI, CT, or other procedure, tell your care team that you are using this medication. You may need to stop taking this medication before the procedure.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Keep out of the reach of children and pets. This medication can be abused. Keep it in a safe place to protect it from theft. Do not share it with anyone. It is only for you. Selling or giving away this medication is dangerous and against the law.
Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Keep the container tightly closed. Get rid of any unused medication after the expiration date.
This medication may cause harm and death if it is taken by other adults, children, or pets. It is important to get rid of the medication as soon as you no longer need it or it is expired. You can do this in two ways:
-Take the medication to a medication take-back program. Check with your pharmacy or law enforcement to find a location.
-If you cannot return the medication, check the label or package insert to see if the medication should be thrown out in the garbage or flushed down the toilet. If you are not sure, ask your care team. If it is safe to put it in the trash, take the medication out of the container. Mix the medication with cat litter, dirt, coffee grounds, or other unwanted substance. Seal the mixture in a bag or container. Put it in the trash.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.