What is Metadate CD?
Metadate CD (Generic Name: methylphenidate HCl) is a central nervous system stimulant primarily used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD or ADD) in children ages 6-12, adolescents, and adults age 65. Metadate CD may improve focus and decrease impulsivity and hyperactive behavior, two hallmark symptoms in some patients.
It contains very active ingredients such as medications like Ritalin and Daytrana. According to the FDA, Metadate CD is a federally controlled substance (CII) because it can be abused or lead to dependence. It has not been studied in children under the age of 6.
The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests treatment with behavioral therapy before medication for children under 6. For children ages 6 to 11, the AAP says, “The primary care clinician should prescribe US Food and Drug Administration–approved medications for ADHD and evidence-based parent- and teacher-administered behavior therapy as a treatment for ADHD, preferably both.”
Likewise, the National Institute of Mental Health finds the most successful treatment plans use a combination of ADHD medication, like Metadate CD, and behavior therapies. It can also be used to treat narcolepsy.
What Is the Dosage for Metadate CD?
As with all medications, follow your Metadate CD prescription guidance strictly. Metadate CD is taken orally, with or without food, once daily. The first dose is typically taken first thing in the morning; it should be taken at the same time each day for the best results.
Capsules should be swallowed whole with water or other liquids. If your child cannot swallow the pill, it can be opened and sprinkled over a spoonful of applesauce.
Taken this way, the mixture should be swallowed whole without chewing, followed by a drink of water or other liquid. Tablets should never be crushed or chewed.
Please do not drink alcohol while taking this medication, as it can cause the medicine to be released too quickly.
During treatment, your doctor may regularly ask you to stop taking Metadate CD so that he or she can monitor ADHD symptoms; check vital statistics including blood, heart, and blood pressure; or evaluate height and weight. If any problems are found, your doctor may recommend discontinuing treatment.
Some patients report developing a tolerance to Metadate CD after long-term use. If you notice that your dosage is no longer controlling your symptoms, talk to your doctor to plan a course of action.
Metadate CD Side Effects
The most common side effects of Metadate CD are as follows: headache, decreased appetite, stomach ache, nervousness, difficulty sleeping, and dizziness.
Other serious side effects include reduced children’s growth, seizures, priapism, and eyesight changes or blurred vision.
If side effects are bothersome or do not go away, talk to your doctor. Most people taking this medication do not experience any of these side effects.
Report to your doctor any heart-related problems or a family history of heart and blood pressure problems. Patients with structural cardiac abnormalities and other serious heart problems have experienced sudden death, stroke, heart attack, and increased blood pressure while taking Metadate CD. Stimulants can increase blood pressure and heart rate.
Physicians should monitor these vital signs closely during the treatment. Call your doctor immediately if you or your child experiences warning symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or fainting while taking Metadate CD.
Discuss circulation problems with your doctor before taking Metadate CD, which has been known to cause numbness, coolness, or pain in fingers or toes, including Raynaud’s phenomenon. Report to your doctor any new blood-flow problems, pain, skin color changes, or sensitivities to temperature while taking Metadate CD.
Metadate CD Addiction
Stimulants like Metadate CD have a high potential for abuse and addiction, particularly among people who do not have ADHD. It is a “Schedule II Stimulant,” a designation that the Drug Enforcement Agency uses for drugs with a high potential for abuse. Other Schedule II drugs include Dexedrine, Ritalin, and cocaine. Somebody with a history of drug abuse should use caution when trying this medication.
Taking the medication exactly as prescribed can reduce the potential for abuse. If you have fallen into Metadate addiction, you should consider calling us to find out what options you have for addiction treatment. Our luxury rehab center will be happy to help.
