Source: FDA, National Drug Code (US) Revision Year: 2020
Focalin is indicated for the treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) [see Clinical Studies (14)].
Prior to treating pediatric patients and adults with central nervous system (CNS) stimulants, including Focalin, assess for the presence of cardiac disease (i.e., perform a careful history, family history of sudden death or ventricular arrhythmia, and physical exam) [see Warnings and Precautions 5.2].
Assess the risk of abuse prior to prescribing, and monitor for signs of abuse and dependence while on therapy. Maintain careful prescription records, educate patients about abuse, monitor for signs of abuse and overdose, and periodically reevaluate the need for Focalin use [see Boxed Warning, Warnings and Precautions (5.1), Drug Abuse and Dependence (9.2, 9.3)].
The recommended starting dose of Focalin for pediatric patients who are not currently taking racemic methylphenidate, or for patients who are on stimulants other than methylphenidate, is 5 mg daily (2.5 mg twice daily) with or without food.
The recommended starting dose of Focalin for pediatric patients currently using methylphenidate is half (½) the total daily dose of racemic methylphenidate.
The dose may be titrated weekly in increments of 2.5 to 5 mg to a maximum of 20 mg daily (10 mg twice daily). The dose should be individualized according to the needs and response of the patient.
Pharmacological treatment of ADHD may be needed for extended periods. Periodically reevaluate the long-term use of Focalin and adjust dosage as needed.
Focalin is administered orally twice daily, at least 4 hours apart.
If paradoxical aggravation of symptoms or other adverse reactions occur, reduce the dosage, or if necessary, discontinue Focalin. If improvement is not observed after appropriate dosage adjustment over a one-month period, the drug should be discontinued.
Signs and symptoms of acute methylphenidate overdosage, resulting principally from overstimulation of the CNS and from excessive sympathomimetic effects, may include the following: vomiting, agitation, tremors, hyperreflexia, muscle twitching, convulsions (may be followed by coma), euphoria, confusion, hallucinations, delirium, sweating, flushing, headache, hyperpyrexia, tachycardia, palpitations, cardiac arrhythmias, hypertension, mydriasis, and dryness of mucous membranes, and rhabdomyolysis.
Consult with a Certified Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) for latest recommendations.
Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), with excursions permitted between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F) [See USP Controlled Room Temperature].
Dispense in tight, light-resistant container (USP).
Comply with local laws and regulations on drug disposal of CNS stimulants. Dispose of remaining, unused, or expired Focalin by a medicine takeback program or by an authorized collector registered with the Drug Enforcement Administration. If no take-back program or authorized collector is available, mix Focalin with an undesirable, nontoxic substance to make it less appealing to children and pets. Place the mixture in a container, such as a sealed plastic bag and discard Focalin in the household trash.
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