How to use Aptensio XR

Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start taking methylphenidate and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

There are different brands and forms of this medication available. They may not have the same effects and may not be interchangeable. Do not change brands or forms without consulting your doctor or pharmacist.

Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually once daily before or with breakfast. If you have upset stomach, you may take this medication with food. Taking this medication late in the day may cause trouble sleeping (insomnia).

Do not break, crush, or chew this medication. Doing so can release all of the drug at once, increasing the risk of side effects. Swallow the capsules whole. If you have trouble swallowing the capsule, you may open the capsule and carefully sprinkle its contents on a spoonful of cool applesauce. Swallow all of the mixture right away without chewing it. Then drink a glass of cool liquid to make sure you have swallowed all of the dose. Do not prepare the mixture ahead of time.

Do not drink alcoholic beverages while you are taking this medication. Drinking alcohol may increase the amount of this medication in your body which may cause serious side effects.

Take this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day.

The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Your doctor may direct you to gradually increase or decrease your dose. Also, if you have used it for a long time, do not suddenly stop using this drug without consulting your doctor.

If you suddenly stop using this medication, you may have withdrawal symptoms (such as depression, suicidal thoughts, or other mental/mood changes). To help prevent withdrawal, your doctor may lower your dose slowly. Withdrawal is more likely if you have used methylphenidate for a long time or in high doses. Tell your doctor or pharmacist right away if you have withdrawal.

When used for a long time, this medication may not work as well. Talk with your doctor if this medication stops working well.

Though it helps many people, this medication may sometimes cause addiction. This risk may be higher if you have a substance use disorder (such as overuse of or addiction to drugs/alcohol). Take this medication exactly as prescribed to lower the risk of addiction. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details.

Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens.