• Concerta belongs to the group of medicines called central nervous system stimulants. It is used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

How should you take this medication?

• Take Concerta medicine with a full glass of water, take it at least 30 minutes before a meal.
   
• The extended-release forms of Concerta can be taken with or without food. Do not crush, chew, break, or open the tablets or capsule. Swallow the pill whole. The chewable tablet form of Concerta must be chewed before you swallow it.

General Precautions with Concerta

• Do not use this medication if you are allergic to methylphenidate or if you have glaucoma, depression, or severe anxiety, tension, or agitation
   
• Do not use Concerta if you have used an MAO inhibitor such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), tranylcypromine (Parnate), phenelzine (Nardil), rasagiline (Azilect), or selegiline within the past 14 days.
   
• Concerta may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or changes in vision. Use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness or clear vision such as driving or using machinery.

What are the possible side effects of Concerta?

• Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
• Stop taking Concerta and call your doctor at once if you have any of these side effects: fast, pounding, or uneven heartbeats, fainting; increased blood pressure, fever, sore throat, red skin rash, easy bruising.
   
• Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur: inability to stay asleep, nervousness, dizziness, nervous feeling, sleep problems, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite.