Dexmethylphenidate Hydrochloride
Brand names: Dexmethylphenidate Hydrochloride Extended-Release, Dexmethylphenidate Hydrochloride, Dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride, DEXMETHYLPHENIDATE HYDROCHLORIDE, Focalin XR, Focalin
Boxed warning
WARNING: ABUSE AND DEPENDENCE CNS stimulants, including dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride, other methylphenidate-containing products, and amphetamines, have a high potential for abuse and dependence. Assess the risk of abuse prior to prescribing, and monitor for signs of abuse and dependence while on therapy [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 ), Drug Abuse and Dependence ( 9.2 , 9.3 )]. WARNING: ABUSE AND DEPENDENCE See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning. CNS stimulants, including dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride, other methylphenidate-containing products, and amphetamines, have a high potential for abuse and dependence ( 5.1 , 9.2 , 9.3 ). Assess the risk of abuse prior to prescribing, and monitor for signs of abuse and dependence while on therapy ( 5.1 , 9.2 ).
Warnings
WARNING: ABUSE AND DEPENDENCE WARNING: ABUSE, MISUSE, AND ADDICTION Dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules has a high potential for abuse and misuse, which can lead to the development of a substance use disorder, including addiction. Misuse and abuse of CNS stimulants, including dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules, can result in overdose and death [see Overdosage (10) ] , and this risk is increased with higher doses or unapproved methods of administration, such as snorting or injection. Before prescribing dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules, assess each patient’s risk for abuse, misuse, and addiction. Educate patients and their families about these risks, proper storage of the drug, and proper disposal of any unused drug. Throughout dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules treatment, reassess each patient’s risk of abuse, misuse, and addiction and frequently monitor for signs and symptoms of abuse, misuse, and addiction [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) , Drug Abuse and Dependence (9.2) ] . WARNING: ABUSE, MISUSE, AND ADDICTION See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning. Dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules has a high potential for abuse and misuse, which can lead to the development of a substance use disorder, including addiction. Misuse and abuse of CNS stimulants, including dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules, can result in overdose and death ( 5.1 , 9.2 , 10 ). Before prescribing dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules, assess each patient’s risk for abuse, misuse, and addiction. Educate patients and their families about these risks, proper storage of the drug, and proper disposal of any unused drug Throughout treatment, reassess each patient’s risk and frequently monitor for signs and symptoms of abuse, misuse, and addiction.
5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS N/A • Risks to Patients with Serious Cardiac Disease: Avoid use in patients with known structural cardiac abnormalities, cardiomyopathy, serious cardiac arrhythmias, coronary artery disease, or other serious cardiac disease ( 5.2 ). • Increased Blood Pressure and Heart Rate: Monitor blood pressure and pulse ( 5.3 ). • Psychiatric Adverse Reactions: Prior to initiating dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules, screen patients for risk factors for developing a manic episode. If new psychotic or manic symptoms occur, consider discontinuing dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules ( 5.4 ). • Priapism: If abnormally sustained or frequent and painful erections occur, patients should seek immediate medical attention ( 5.5 ). • Peripheral Vasculopathy, including Raynaud’s Phenomenon: Careful observation for digital changes is necessary during dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules treatment. Further clinical evaluation (e.g., rheumatology referral) may be appropriate for patients who develop signs or symptoms of peripheral vasculopathy ( 5.6 ). • Long-Term Suppression of Growth in Pediatric Patients: Closely monitor growth (height and weight) in pediatric patients. Pediatric patients not growing or gaining height or weight as expected may need to have their treatment interrupted (5.7). • Acute Angle Closure Glaucoma: Dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules-treated patients considered at risk for acute angle closure glaucoma (e.g., patients with significant hyperopia) should be evaluated by an ophthalmologist (5.8). • Increased Intraocular Pressure (IOP) and Glaucoma: Prescribe dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules to patients with open-angle glaucoma or abnormally increased IOP only if the benefit of treatment is considered to outweigh the risk. Closely monitor patients with a history of increased IOP or open angle glaucoma (5.9). • Motor and Verbal Tics, and Worsening of Tourette’s Syndrome: Before initiating dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules, assess the family history and clinically evaluate patients for tics or Tourette’s syndrome. Regularly monitor patients for the emergence or worsening of tics or Tourette’s syndrome. Discontinue treatment if clinically appropriate (5.10) 5.1 Abuse, Misuse, and Addiction Dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules has a high potential for abuse and misuse. The use of dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules exposes individuals to the risks of abuse and misuse, which can lead to the development of a substance use disorder, including addiction. Dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules can be diverted for non-medical use into illicit channels or distribution [see Drug Abuse and Dependence (9.2) ] . Misuse and abuse of CNS stimulants, including dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules, can result in overdose and death [see Overdosage (10) ] , and this risk is increased with higher doses or unapproved methods of administration, such as snorting or injection. Before prescribing dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules, assess each patient’s risk for abuse, misuse, and addiction. Educate patients and their families about these risks and proper disposal of any unused drug. Advise patients to store dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules in a safe place, preferably locked, and instruct patients to not give dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules to anyone else. Throughout dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules treatment, reassess each patient’s risk of abuse, misuse, and addiction and frequently monitor for signs and symptoms of abuse, misuse, and addiction. 5.2 Risks to Patients with Serious Cardiac Disease Sudden death has been reported in patients with structural cardiac abnormalities or other serious cardiac disease who were treated with CNS stimulants at the recommended ADHD dosage. Avoid dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules use in patients with known structural cardiac abnormalities, cardiomyopathy, serious cardiac arrhythmia, coronary artery disease, or other serious cardiac disease. 5.3 Increased Blood Pressure and Heart Rate CNS stimulants cause an increase in blood pressure (mean increase approximately 2 to 4 mmHg) and heart rate (mean increase approximately 3 to 6 beats per minute). Some patients may have larger increases. Monitor all dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules-treated patients for hypertension and tachycardia. 5.4 Psychiatric Adverse Reactions Exacerbation of Pre-existing Psychosis CNS stimulants may exacerbate symptoms of behavior disturbance and thought disorder in patients with a pre-existing psychotic disorder. Induction of a Manic Episode in Patients with Bipolar Disorder CNS stimulants may induce a manic or mixed mood episode in patients. Prior to initiating dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules treatment, screen patients for risk factors for developing manic episode (e.g., comorbid or history of depressive symptoms or a family history of suicide, bipolar disorder, or depression). New Psychotic or Manic Symptoms CNS stimulants, at the recommended dosage, may cause psychotic or manic symptoms (e.g., hallucinations, delusional thinking, or mania) in patients without a prior history of psychotic illness or mania. In a pooled analysis of multiple short-term, placebo-controlled studies of CNS stimulants, psychotic or manic symptoms occurred in approximately 0.1% of CNS stimulant-treated patients, compared to 0% of placebo-treated patients. If such symptoms occur, consider discontinuing dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules. 5.5 Priapism Prolonged and painful erections, sometimes requiring surgical intervention, have been reported with methylphenidate use in both adult and pediatric male patients. Although priapism was not reported with methylphenidate initiation, it developed after some time on methylphenidate, often subsequent to an increase in dosage. Priapism also occurred during methylphenidate withdrawal (drug holidays or during discontinuation). Dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules-treated patients who develop abnormally sustained or frequent and painful erections should seek immediate medical attention. 5.6 Peripheral Vasculopathy, Including Raynaud’s Phenomenon CNS stimulants, including dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules, used to treat ADHD are associated with peripheral vasculopathy, including Raynaud’s phenomenon. Signs and symptoms are usually intermittent and mild; however, sequelae have included digital ulceration and/or soft tissue breakdown. Effects of peripheral vasculopathy, including Raynaud’s phenomenon, were observed in post-marketing reports at and at the therapeutic dosage of CNS stimulants in all age groups throughout the course of treatment. Signs and symptoms generally improved after dosage reduction or discontinuation of the CNS stimulant. Careful observation for digital changes is necessary during dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules treatment. Further clinical evaluation (e.g., rheumatology referral) may be appropriate for dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules-treated patients who develop signs or symptoms of peripheral vasculopathy. 5.7 Long-Term Suppression of Growth in Pediatric Patients Dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules are not approved for use and are not recommended in pediatric patients below 6 years of age [see Use in Specific Populations (8.4) ] . CNS stimulants have been associated with weight loss and slowing of growth rate in pediatric patients. In a 7-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules, the mean weight gain was greater for pediatric patients (ages 6 to 17 years) receiving placebo (+ 0.4 kg) than for patients receiving dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules (- 0.5 kg). Careful follow-up of weight and height in pediatric patients ages 7 to 10 years who were randomized to either methylphenidate or non-medication treatment groups over 14 months, as well as in naturalistic subgroups of newly methylphenidate-treated and non-medication treated patients over 36 months (to the ages of 10 to 13 years), suggests that pediatric patients who received methylphenidate for 7 days per week throughout the year had a temporary slowing in growth rate (on average, a total of about 2 cm less growth in height and 2.7 kg less growth in weight over 3 years), without evidence of growth rebound during this development period. Closely monitor growth (weight and height) in dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules-treated pediatric patients. Pediatric patients who are not growing or gaining height or weight as expected may need to have their treatment interrupted. 5.8 Acute Angle Closure Glaucoma There have been reports of angle closure glaucoma associated with methylphenidate treatment. Although the mechanism is not clear, dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules-treated patients considered at risk for acute angle closure glaucoma (e.g., patients with significant hyperopia) should be evaluated by an ophthalmologist. 5.9 Increased Intraocular Pressure and Glaucoma There have been reports of an elevation of intraocular pressure (IOP) associated with methylphenidate treatment [see Adverse Reactions (6.2) ] . Prescribe dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride tablets to patients with open-angle glaucoma or abnormally increased IOP only if the benefit of treatment is considered to outweigh the risk. Closely monitor dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules-treated patients with a history of abnormally increased IOP or open angle glaucoma. 5.10 Motor and Verbal Tics, and Worsening of Tourette’s Syndrome CNS stimulants, including methylphenidate, have been associated with the onset or exacerbation of motor and verbal tics. Worsening of Tourette’s syndrome has also been reported [see Adverse Reactions (6.2) ] . Before initiating dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules, assess the family history and clinically evaluate patients for tics or Tourette’s syndrome. Regularly monitor dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride tablets-treated patients for the emergence or worsening of tics or Tourette’s syndrome, and discontinue treatment if clinically appropriate.
Contraindications
4 CONTRAINDICATIONS Hypersensitivity to methylphenidate or other components of dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride tablets. Hypersensitivity reactions, such as angioedema and anaphylactic reactions have been reported in patients treated with methylphenidate [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.1 )] . Concomitant treatment with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), or within 14 days following discontinuation of treatment with an MAOI, because of the risk of hypertensive crises [see Drug Interactions ( 7.1 )] . Known hypersensitivity to methylphenidate or other components of dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride tablets ( 4 ). Concurrent treatment with a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), or use of an MAOI within the preceding 14 days ( 4 ).
Overdose
10 OVERDOSAGE Human Experience Signs and symptoms of acute methylphenidate overdosage, resulting principally from overstimulation of the CNS and from excessive sympathomimetic effects, may include the following: vomiting, agitation, tremors, hyperreflexia, muscle twitching, convulsions (may be followed by coma), euphoria, confusion, hallucinations, delirium, sweating, flushing, headache, hyperpyrexia, tachycardia, palpitations, cardiac arrhythmias, hypertension, mydriasis, and dryness of mucous membranes, and rhabdomyolysis. Overdose Management Consult with a Certified Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) for latest recommendations.
Drug interactions
7 DRUG INTERACTIONS Antihypertensive Drugs: Monitor blood pressure. Adjust dosage of antihypertensive drug as needed ( 7.1 ). Halogenated Anesthetics: Avoid use of dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride tablets on the day of surgery if halogenated anesthetics will be used ( 7.1 ). 7.1 Clinically Important Drug Interactions With Dexmethylphenidate Hydrochloride Tablets Table 2 presents clinically important drug interactions with dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride tablets. Table 2: Clinically Important Drug Interactions With Dexmethylphenidate Hydrochloride Tablets Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) Clinical Impact Concomitant use of MAOIs and CNS stimulants, including dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride tablets, can cause hypertensive crisis. Potential outcomes include death, stroke, myocardial infarction, aortic dissection, ophthalmological complications, eclampsia, pulmonary edema, and renal failure [see Contraindications ( 4 )]. Intervention Concomitant use of dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride tablets with MAOIs or within 14 days after discontinuing MAOI treatment is contraindicated. Examples selegiline, tranylcypromine, isocarboxazid, phenelzine, linezolid, methylene blue Antihypertensive Drugs Clinical Impact Dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride tablets may decrease the effectiveness of drugs used to treat hypertension [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 )]. Intervention Adjust the dosage of the antihypertensive drug as needed. Examples Potassium-sparing and thiazide diuretics, calcium channel blockers, angiotensin-converting-enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), beta blockers, centrally acting alpha-2 receptor agonists Halogenated Anesthetics Clinical Impact Concomitant use of halogenated anesthetics and dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride tablets may increase the risk of sudden blood pressure and heart rate increase during surgery. Intervention Monitor blood pressure and avoid use of dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride tablets in patients being treated with anesthetics on the day of surgery. Examples halothane, isoflurane, enflurane, desflurane, sevoflurane Risperidone Clinical Impact Combined use of methylphenidate with risperidone when there is a change, whether an increase or decrease, in dosage of either or both medications, may increase the risk of extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) Intervention Monitor for signs of EPS
Uses
1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE Dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules are indicated for the treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) [see Clinical Studies (14 )]. Limitations of Use The use of dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules is not recommended in pediatric patients younger than 6 years of age because they had higher plasma exposure and a higher incidence of adverse reactions (e.g., weight loss) than patients 6 years and older at the same dosage [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) , Use in Specific Populations (8.4) ] . Dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules are a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant indicated for the treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) ( 1 ). Limitations of Use The use of dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules is not recommended in pediatric patients younger than 6 years of age because they had higher plasma exposure and a higher incidence of adverse reactions (e.g., weight loss) than patients 6 years and older at the same dosage ( 5.7 , 8.4 ).
Dosage forms & strengths
2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Administer orally twice daily, 4 hours apart with or without food ( 2 ). For patients new to methylphenidate: Recommend starting dose of 5 mg once daily (2.5 mg twice daily) ( 2.2 ). For patients currently taking methylphenidate: Initiate dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride tablets therapy with half (1/2) the current total daily dose of methylphenidate ( 2.3 ). Titrate weekly in increments of 2.5 to 5 mg to a maximum of 20 mg/day (10 mg twice daily) ( 2.2 ). 2.1 Pretreatment Screening Prior to treating pediatric patients and adults with central nervous system (CNS) stimulants, including dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride tablets, 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 and Precautions ( 5.2 )] . Assess the risk of abuse prior to prescribing, and monitor for signs of abuse and dependence while on therapy. Maintain careful prescription records, educate patients about abuse, monitor for signs of abuse and overdose, and periodically reevaluate the need for dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride tablets use [see Boxed Warning , Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 ), Drug Abuse and Dependence ( 9.2 , 9.3 )] . 2.2 Pediatric Patients With Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Patients New to Methylphenidate The recommended starting dose of dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride tablets for pediatric patients who are not currently taking racemic methylphenidate, or for patients who are on stimulants other than methylphenidate, is 5 mg daily (2.5 mg twice daily) with or without food. Patients Currently on Methylphenidate The recommended starting dose of dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride tablets for pediatric patients currently using methylphenidate is half (1/2) the total daily dose of racemic methylphenidate. Titration Schedule The dose may be titrated weekly in increments of 2.5 to 5 mg to a maximum of 20 mg daily (10 mg twice daily). The dose should be individualized according to the needs and response of the patient. Maintenance/Extended Treatment Pharmacological treatment of ADHD may be needed for extended periods. Periodically reevaluate the long-term use of dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride tablets and adjust dosage as needed. 2.3 Administration Instructions Dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride tablets are administered orally twice daily, at least 4 hours apart. 2.4 Dose Reduction and Discontinuation If paradoxical aggravation of symptoms or other adverse reactions occur, reduce the dosage, or if necessary, discontinue dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride tablets. If improvement is not observed after appropriate dosage adjustment over a one-month period, the drug should be discontinued.
All identified pills
Side effects
6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following are discussed in more detail in other sections of the labeling: • Abuse, Misuse, and Addiction [see Boxed Warning , Warnings and Precautions (5.1) , Drug Abuse and Dependence ( 9.2 , 9.3 )] • Known hypersensitivity to methylphenidate or other ingredients of dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules [see Contraindications (4) ] • Hypertensive Crisis with Concomitant Use of Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors [see Contraindications (4) , Drug Interactions (7.1) ] • Risks to Patients with Serious Cardiac Disease [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] • Increased Blood Pressure and Heart Rate [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] • Psychiatric Adverse Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] • Priapism [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] • Peripheral Vasculopathy, Including Raynaud’s Phenomenon [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ] • Long-Term Suppression of Growth in Pediatric Patients [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ] • Acute Angle Closure Glaucoma [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8) ] • Increased Intraocular Pressure and Glaucoma [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9) ] • Motor and Verbal Tics, and Worsening of Tourette’s Syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10) ] The most common adverse reactions (greater than or equal to 5% and twice the rate of placebo): • Pediatric patients 6 to 17 years: dyspepsia, decreased appetite, headache, and anxiety ( 6.1 ). • Adults: dry mouth, dyspepsia, headache, pharyngolaryngeal pain, and anxiety ( 6.1 ). To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Granules Pharmaceuticals Inc. at 1-877-770-3183 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch . 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in clinical practice. Adverse Reactions in Studies with Dexmethylphenidate Hydrochloride Extended-Release Capsules in Pediatric Patients with ADHD The safety data in this section is based on data from a 7-week controlled clinical study of dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules in 100 (103 randomized)pediatric patients with ADHD ages 6 to 17 years (ages 6 to 12, n = 86; ages 13 to 17, n = 17). This study was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group study to evaluate the time of onset, duration of efficacy, tolerability, safety of dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules 5 mg to 30 mg/day who met The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition (DSM-IV) criteria for ADHD [ see Clinical Studies (14.1)]. Most Common Adverse Reactions (incidence of greater than or equal to 5% and at least twice placebo): dyspepsia, decreased appetite, headache and anxiety. Adverse Reactions Leading to Discontinuation : 50 of 684 (7.3%) pediatric patients treated with dexmethylphenidate immediate-release tablets experienced an adverse reaction that resulted in discontinuation. The most common reasons for discontinuation were twitching (described as motor or vocal tics), anorexia, insomnia, and tachycardia (approximately 1% each). Table 1 enumerates adverse reactions for the placebo-controlled, parallel-group study in children and adolescents with ADHD at flexible dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules doses of 5 to 30 mg/day. The table includes only those events that occurred in 5% or more of patients treated with dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules and for which the incidence in patients treated with dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules was at least twice the incidence in placebo-treated patients. Table 1: Common Adverse Reactions in Pediatric Patients (6 to 17 years of age) With A System organ class Adverse reaction Dexmethylphenidate Hydrochloride Extended-Release Capsules N = 53 Placebo N=47 Gastrointestinal disorders 38% 19% Dyspepsia 8% 4% Metabolism and nutrition disorders 34% 11% Decreased appetite 30% 9% Nervous system d isorders 30% 13% Headache 25% 11% Psychiatric disorders 26% 15% Anxiety 6% 0 Abbreviation: ADHD, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder Table 2 below enumerates the incidence of dose-related adverse reactions that occurred during a fixed-dose, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in pediatric patients with ADHD taking dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules up to 30 mg daily versus placebo. The table includes only those reactions that occurred in patients treated with dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules for which the incidence was at least 5% and greater than the incidence among placebo-treated patients. Table 2: Dose-Related Adverse Reactions in Pediatric Patients (6 to 17 years of age) With ADHD System organ class Adverse reaction Dexmethylphenidate Hydrochloride Extended-Release Capsules 10 mg/day N = 64 Dexmethylphenidate Hydrochloride Extended-Release Capsules 20 mg/day N = 60 Dexmethylphenidate Hydrochloride Extended-Release Capsules 30 mg/day N = 58 Placebo N=63 Gastrointestinal disorders 22% 23% 29% 24% Vomiting 2% 8% 9% 0% Metabolism and nutritional disorders 16% 17% 22% 5% Anorexia 5% 5% 7% 0% Psychiatric disorders 19% 20% 38% 8% Insomnia 5% 8% 17% 3% Depression 0% 0% 3% 0% Mood swings 0% 0% 3% 2% Other adverse deactions Irritability 0% 2% 5% 0% Nasal congestion 0% 0% 5% 0% Pruritus 0% 0% 3% 0% Abbreviation: ADHD, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Adverse Reactions in Studies with Dexmethylphenidate Hydrochloride Extended-Release Capsules in Adult Patients with ADHD The safety data in this section is based on data from a 5-week controlled clinical study of dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules in 218 adult patients (221 randomized) with ADHD ages 18 to 60 years. In this study, 101 adult patients were treated for at least 6 months. This study was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group study to evaluate the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules 20 mg, 30 mg, or 40 mg daily who met DSM-IV criteria for ADHD [ see Clinical Studies ( 14.2 )]. Most Common Adverse Reactions (incidence of greater than or equal to 5% and at least twice placebo): dry mouth, dyspepsia, headache, anxiety, and pharyngolaryngeal pain. Adverse Reactions Leading to Discontinuation : During the double-blind phase of the study, 10.7% of the dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules - treated patients and 7.5% of the placebo-treated patients discontinued due to adverse reactions. Three patients (1.8%) in the dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules discontinued due to insomnia and jittery, respectively and two patients (1.2%) in the dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules discontinued due to anorexia and anxiety, respectively. Table 3 enumerates adverse reactions for the placebo-controlled, parallel-group study in adults with ADHD at fixed dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules doses of 20, 30, or 40 mg/day. The table includes only those events that occurred in 5% or more of patients in a dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules dose group and for which the incidences in patients treated with dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules appeared to increase with dose. Table 3: Dose-Related Adverse Reactions in Adult Patients (18 to 60 years of age) With ADHD System organ class Adverse reaction Dexmethylphenidate Hydrochloride Extended-Release Capsules 20 mg N=57 Dexmethylphenidate Hydrochloride Extended-Release Capsules 30 mg N=54 Dexmethylphenidate Hydrochloride Extended-Release Capsules 40 mg N=54 Placebo N=53 Gastrointestinal disorders 28% 32% 44% 19% Dry mouth 7% 20% 20% 4% Dyspesia 5% 9% 9% 2% Nervous system disorders 37% 39% 50% 28% Headache 26% 30% 39% 19% Psychiatric disorders 40% 43% 46% 30% Anxiety 5% 11% 11% 2% Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders 16% 9% 15% 8% Pharyngolaryngeal pain 4% 4% 7% 2% Two other adverse reactions occurring in clinical trials with dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules at a frequency greater than placebo, but which were not dose related were: feeling jittery (12% and 2%, respectively) and dizziness (6% and 2%, respectively). Table 4 summarizes changes in vital signs and weight that were recorded in the adult study (N=218) of dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules in the treatment of ADHD. Table 4: Changes (Mean ± SD) in Vital Signs and Weight by Randomized Dose During Double-Blind Treatment-Adults Dexmethylphenidate Hydrochloride Extended-Release Capsules 20 mg (N=57) Dexmethylphenidate Hydrochloride Extended-release Capsules 30 mg (N=54) Dexmethylphenidate Hydrochloride Extended-Release Capsules 40 mg (N=54) Placebo (N=53) Pulse (bpm ) 3.1 ± 11.1 4.3 ± 11.7 6.0 ± 10.1 -1.4 ± 9.3 Diastolic BP (mmHg) -0.2 ± 8.2 1.2 ± 8.9 2.1 ± 8 0.3 ± 7.8 Weight (kg) -1.4 ± 2 -1.2 ± 1.9 -1.7 ± 2.3 -0.1 ± 3.9 6.2 Postmarketing Experience The following additional adverse reactions have been identified during postapproval use of dexmethylphenidate. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure. Musculoskeletal: rhabdomyolysis Immune System Disorders: hypersensitivity reactions, including angioedema and anaphylaxis Adverse Reactions Reported With All Methylphenidate Hydrochloride and Dexmethylphenidate Hydrochloride Formulations The following adverse reactions associated with the use of all methylphenidate hydrochloride and dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride formulations were identified in clinical trials, spontaneous reports, and literature. Because these reactions were reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to estimate their frequency reliably or to establish a causal relationship to drug exposure. Infections and Infestations: nasopharyngitis Blood and the Lymphatic System Disorders: leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, anemia Immune System Disorders: hypersensitivity reactions, including angioedema and anaphylaxis Metabolism and Nutrition Disorders: decreased appetite, reduced weight gain, and suppression of growth during prolonged use in pediatric patients Psychiatric Disorders: insomnia, anxiety, restlessness, agitation, psychosis (sometimes with visual and tactile hallucinations), depressed mood, depression Nervous System Disorders: headache, dizziness, tremor, dyskinesia, including choreoathetoid movements, drowsiness, convulsions, cerebrovascular disorders (including vasculitis, cerebral hemorrhages and cerebrovascular accidents), serotonin syndrome in combination with serotonergic drugs Eye Disorders: blurred vision, difficulties in visual accommodation Cardiac Disorders: tachycardia, palpitations, increased blood pressure, arrhythmias, angina pectoris Respiratory, Thoracic, and Mediastinal Disorders: cough Gastrointestinal Disorders: dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dyspepsia Hepatobiliary Disorders: abnormal liver function, ranging from transaminase elevation to severe hepatic injury Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders: hyperhidrosis, pruritus, urticaria, exfoliative dermatitis, scalp hair loss, erythema multiforme rash, thrombocytopenic purpura Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue Disorders: arthralgia, muscle cramps, rhabdomyolysis, trismus Investigations: weight loss (adult ADHD patients) Vascular Disorders: peripheral coldness, Raynaud's phenomenon Additional Adverse Reactions Reported with Other Methylphenidate Products The list below shows adverse reactions not listed with methylphenidate hydrochloride and dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride formulations that have been reported with other methylphenidate products based on clinical trials data and post-marketing spontaneous reports. Blood and Lymphatic Disorders: pancytopenia Immune System Disorders: hypersensitivity reactions, such as auricular swelling, bullous conditions, eruptions, exanthemas Psychiatric Disorders: affect lability, mania, disorientation, libido changes Nervous System Disorders: migraine, motor and verbal tics Eye Disorders: diplopia, increased intraocular pressure, mydriasis Cardiac Disorders: sudden cardiac death, myocardial infarction, bradycardia, extrasystole, supraventricular tachycardia, ventricular extrasystole Respiratory, Thoracic, and Mediastinal Disorders: pharyngolaryngeal pain, dyspnea Gastrointestinal Disorders: diarrhea, constipation Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders: angioneurotic edema, erythema, fixed drug eruption Musculoskeletal, Connective Tissue, and Bone Disorders: myalgia, muscle twitching Renal and Urinary Disorders: hematuria Reproductive System and Breast Disorders: gynecomastia General Disorders: fatigue, hyperpyrexia Urogenital Disorders: priapism