Focalin is the brand name for the genetic drug Dexmethylphenidate which is manufactured by Novartis. This is a prescription medicine for ADHD and is available in tablets of 2.5 mg, 5 mg and 10 mg. Focalin is a refined formulation of d,l-methylphenidate HCl, also known as Ritalin.
Indication
Focalin is used in the treatment of ADHD as a part of a total therapy. Very often, antihypertensives and antidepressants are given in conjunction with this drug for this condition for better results. The drug may have to be given for many years, with breaks in between because what begins in childhood could last right through the teens even into adulthood. The drug is also prescribed for mild depression as well as for sleep disorders like narcolepsy.
Action
Focalin is a psychostimulant drug and acts on the central nervous system by inhibiting the dopamine and the norepinephrine transporters. The drug is a modified variant of methylphenidate which is used widely to treat ADHD especially in children. While it is not sure how the drug works, it is believed that it blocks the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine in the central nervous system.
Side Effects
There could be side effects to this drug like nervousness, insomnia, stomach aches, weight loss and elevated heart rate. Also reported are side effects like anxiety, a loss of appetite and swelling. The doctor must know about all the medicines and supplements that are being taken before any prescription is made out. Certain drugs could react with this drug and could cause problems. The mouth could be dry and there could be nausea and dizziness. More serious side effects could include uncontrollable tics, seizures, blurred vision and chest pain. Any side effects must be immediately communicated to the doctor because it could be serious, especially if there is any kind of evidence that points to suicidal tendencies.
Caution
One should always be careful to keep a time gap between doses and never take two doses together if one dose has been missed as this could have dangerous results. Especially in the case of young children or old people, careful monitoring must be done to see that the doses are taken at the correct time. As it could make your reflexes slightly slower, driving and using dangerous machines will have to be avoided. The drug is habit forming so very often, doctors will ask you to take a break and then prescribe it again.
Contraindications
People who suffer from very high blood pressure, cardiovascular ailments, kidney problems or glaucoma should not be given this drug. It is also unsafe for mothers who are breast feeding or pregnant women to take this drug. The drug could also aggravate the condition of people who are very tense or agitated.