Methylphenidate HCl Tips from Pharmacists

• Make sure you understand how and when to take your methylphenidate. Some formulations should be taken 30-45 minutes before meals while others can be taken with or without food.

• Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you are unclear about the dosing instructions. For example, you may need to drink a full glass of water after taking some formulations of methylphenidate.

• Read the prescription label and take the methylphenidate medication exactly as prescribed. Do not change the dose or dosing frequency without your doctor’s approval. Do not stop treatment with methylphenidate without consulting your healthcare provider.

• Give your doctor a full list of all your medications before starting treatment. Drug interactions can put you at risk of serious health complications, for example, serotonin syndrome if you take methylphenidate with certain antidepressants.