Methylphenidatedosage

Prior to treating patients with methylphenidate hydrochloride chewable tablet 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).

the family history and clinically evaluate patients for motor or verbal tics or Tourette's syndrome (see WARNINGS). Dosage should be individualized according to the needs and responses of the patient. Directions – Take this product (child or adult dose) with at least 8 ounces (a full glass) of water or other fluid. Taking this product without enough liquid may cause choking. See choking warning. Adults Administer in divided doses 2 or 3 times daily, preferably 30 to 45 minutes before meals. Average dosage is 20 to 30 mg daily. Some patients may require 40 to 60 mg daily. In others, 10 to 15 mg daily will be adequate. Patients who are unable to sleep if medication is taken late in the day should take the last dose before 6 p.m. Children (6 years and over) Methylphenidate hydrochloride chewable tablets should be initiated in small doses, with gradual weekly increments. Daily dosage above 60 mg is not recommended. If paradoxical aggravation of symptoms or other adverse effects occur, reduce dosage, or, if necessary, discontinue methylphenidate hydrochloride chewable tablet. Methylphenidate hydrochloride chewable tablet should be periodically discontinued to assess the patient's condition. If improvement is not observed after appropriate dosage adjustment over a one-month period, the drug should be discontinued. Chewable Tablets: Start with 5 mg twice daily (before breakfast and lunch) with gradual increments of 5 to 10 mg weekly. Drug treatment should not and need not be indefinite and usually may be discontinued after puberty.