What are the Side Effects?:

As with most medications, there may be some unwanted effects. However, not everyone gets side effects and most side effects are mild and temporary. Side effects are less likely if the dose is increased gradually and titrated carefully. Some people worry about becoming addicted to medication, but there is no good evidence to suggest that this is a problem.

Some of the common side effects of methylphenidate include:

• Loss of appetite
• Difficulty falling asleep

Less common side effects to look out for include:

• Being ‘over-focused’, and quiet - this may be a sign that the dose is too high
• Tummy pains or feeling sick
• Headache
  

Are there any special tests before or while taking the medications?

Before taking the medication, you will receive a physical health check up especially for heart rate, blood pressure, height and weight, and any other medical problems. Sometimes we may require a blood test or heart tracing test to measure the electrical activity of the heart called an electrocardiogram (ECG).

While taking the medication, we will monitor your heart rate, blood pressure, weight and height on a regular basis along with checking for any side effects.