Concerta Uses

Concerta (methylphenidate HCl) is a prescription stimulant medication that is used to treat symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), such as hyperactivity, impulsivity, and poor attention. ADHD medications are used as part of a total treatment program that includes behavior therapy, parent training, social skills training, and educational support.

Concerta is also used to treat a sleep disorder called narcolepsy. This condition is characterized by sudden attacks of sleepiness and excessive daytime drowsiness.

There may be other uses of Concerta—your doctor or health system pharmacists can give you further drug information.

Concerta Mechanism of Action

Concerta works by changing the levels of certain natural substances in the brain (norepinephrine and dopamine) that regulate the ability to focus and pay attention. Research suggests that changes in the levels of these natural chemicals cause ADHD symptoms.

Concerta Doses

Concerta extended-release tablets come in the following dosage strengths: 18 mg, 27 mg, 36 mg, and 54 mg. The usual starting dose of Concerta is 18 mg once daily in the morning in children and adolescents and 18 mg or 36 mg once daily in the morning in adults between 18 and 65 years of age. The total dose can be increased by 18 mg at weekly intervals, if needed, to achieve optimal response and control of ADHD symptoms. The maximum recommended dose in children is 54 mg once daily and in adolescents and adults is 72 mg once daily.

For the treatment of narcolepsy, the initial dose is usually 10 mg twice per day of methylphenidate HCl immediate-release formulations. This dose can be increased by 5 mg to 10 mg every 1-2 weeks up to a maximum dose of 60 mg daily. Once you are on a stable dose that controls your narcolepsy symptoms, your doctor may convert you to an extended-release formulation of methylphenidate, such as Concerta, for the convenience of once-daily dosing.