focalin is a refined form of ritalin use for treatment of ADHD

focalin is a type of ritalin that contains only the more active d-isomer of methylphenidate. The l-isomer, which is essentially inert, is left out. Because of this, the usual dose of Focalin is half that of Ritalin. However, since what was left out was largely inert, your ADHD child gets the same amount of active amphetamine. There is really nothing new in this drug.

Side Effects of Focalin

Adverse events reported from Focalin are typical of other amphetamines used to treat ADHD. They include stomach pain, fever, anorexia and nausea abnormal heartbeat, abnormal muscular movements, allergic reactions including skin rash, anemia, blood pressure changes, blood vessel inflammation or blockage in the brain, chest pain, depression, dizziness, drowsiness, emotional instability marked by abnormal thinking or hallucinations, hair loss, headache, hives, joint pain, palpitations, purplish skin spots or bruises, severe skin rash, skin inflammation with peeling, Tourette's syndrome, and vomiting.

There is no information about the safety and effectiveness of long-term treatment in children.

Over a long period of time addiction and tolerance can develop.

Counter Indications

It should not be used by people who suffer from anxiety, tension, and agitation, since the drug may aggravate these symptoms. It should not be taken by anyone with glaucoma, tics or someone who suffers from, or has a family history of Tourette's syndrome.

The mode of therapeutic action is not known.

Dosage

Usually divided into 2 doses taken at least 4 hours apart. It may be increase by 2.5 to 5 milligrams a day, up to a maximum daily dose of 20 milligrams (10 milligrams twice a day)