Focalin Prescription for ADHD, Dosage, Side Effects

June 28, 2021
Focalin Uses

 

When it comes to ADHD treatment, you have an overwhelming list of medications that come in different dosages. However, finding the best ADHD medication often entails a lengthy process guided by many factors. For instance, any prescription must consider a patient’s medical history, genetics, and possible side effects.

Without the right prescription, victims of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) find it challenging to concentrate and control their impulsive behavior. Currently, the number one prescription drugs for ADHD belong to a family of stimulants known as methylphenidates. These stimulants have been tried and established as an effective medication for the common ADHD symptoms.

Focalin, one of the commonly used ADHD prescriptions, belongs to this drug family. It provides relief to ADHD patients, including suppression of hyperactive behavior. Other drugs in this family include Ritalin, Metadate, and Concerta.

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Focalin Uses and Prescription

Focalin ranks as one of the most effective medications for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. The drug works by altering the amounts of natural substances in the brain. This alleviates the possible symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.

For ADHD, stimulant medications such as Focalin are considered an effective first line of treatment. These stimulant drugs work on the central nervous system and increase dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. The results are high alertness level, concentration, and a general decline in impulsive behavior.

Even though it’s classified as a schedule II controlled substance by federal regulation, Focalin is not a narcotic. This explains why doctors still prescribe it in treating symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children. But just like any other stimulant treatments, Focalin prescription should include behavioral therapy and other non-pharmacological treatments to alter some of its side effects.

 

Focalin
Drugs that Interact with Focalin

 

Focalin and Adderall Treatments for ADHD

Quite often, most people confuse between Focalin and Adderall treatments for ADHD. While Focalin belongs to the dexmethylphenidate drugs, Adderall is both an amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. This means both the drugs are central nervous system stimulants suitable for ADHD treatment. While Focalin and Adderall can both treat symptoms of ADHD, Adderall can also be used as a cognitive enhancer.

Being dextroamphetamine, Adderall also treats narcolepsy. It can also serve as a recreational aphrodisiac and euphoriant. When used in ADHD treatment, Focalin and Adderall exhibit close to similar side effects. In most cases, patients who have used these two drugs differently report side effects like:

  • Restlessness
  • Anxiety
  • Loss of appetite
  • Headache 
  • Insomnia

However, some side effects of Adderall are not so common in patients on Focalin prescription. These include:

  • Nervousness
  • Irritability
  • Dizziness
  • Blurred 
  • Diarrhea, Constipation
  • Weight Loss
  • Nausea

 

Focalin Dosage

Focalin exists in two forms. That is Focalin Regular and Focalin Extended use. Regular Focalin exists in doses of 2.5mg, 5mg, and 10mg. When used, it lasts in the blood system for approximately six hours. However, the drug takes effect in less than two hours.

On the other hand, Focalin extended-release, also known as Focalin XR, exists in doses between 5mg to 40mg. The drug also comes in the form of a capsule and can last more than 12 hours in the blood system. 

For under-age kids, the recommended dose of Focalin is 5mg per day. Adults can take twice as much as this but under a doctor’s recommendation. It’s also advisable to include behavioral therapy treatment alongside any Focalin medication, especially for kids.

Patients new to methylphenidate or any stimulant treatment need to start with a recommended dose of 5mg. This dosage can be increased daily to a maximum of 20mg for adults, depending on the doctor’s recommendation.

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Screening before Focalin Prescription

A thorough pre-treatment scanning is vital before the administration of Focalin. This has to involve assessing cardiac diseases and a general physical exam to establish any underlying medical conditions.

A prescribing doctor has to maintain all the prescription records and occasionally reexamine the need for further Focalin treatment.

 

Focalin Side Effects 

Continued use of Focalin comes with an array of side effects. Though not common in most people, some of the typical short term side effects include:

  • Stomach Upsets
  • Nausea and Loss of Appetite
  • Palpitations
  • Restlessness

On prolonged use, Focalin use may culminate in serious side effects such as:

  • Severe allergic reactions
  • Stunted growth in kids
  • Blurred vision
  • Lengthy pain erection

 

Focalin Prescription
Focalin Dosage Forms and Strengths

 

Who Can Prescribe Focalin?

Any health professional who can diagnose and treat ADHD can prescribe Focalin. This can be any healthcare giver, as long as they are licensed. If you’re uncertain about the correct medication for your child’s ADHD condition, perhaps you should consult a family doctor for proper diagnosis and medication. This can either be:

  • A Psychologist
  • A Psychiatrist 
  • A Neurologist 

Focalin prescription is also available online for those who want to enjoy a little convenience. Many healthcare givers have made this possible by introducing telemedicine as a way of accessing high-quality medical care without having to step out of the house.

 

Benefits of Focalin 

Focalin as an ADHD treatment offers many benefits to patients. When used in ADHD treatment, Focalin may improve focus and lower hyperactive behavior. Focalin also has a lower stimulating effect than most methylphenidates, making it an ideal ADHD prescription. 

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Final Thoughts

Focalin is one of the most effective treatments for ADHD in both children and adults. And even though it bears a fair share of side effects, your doctor can prescribe it alongside other treatments like behavioral therapy. For the right ADHD diagnosis and prescription, you can also count on the Mango clinic. The doctors here will help you get the best treatment options for ADHD that also includes a Focalin prescription.

Contact us at Mango Clinic for ADHD treatment or click the banner below to book your appointment.

 

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