ADD/ADHD News

August 27th 2007

Focalin - now available in UK

Focalin

Dexmethylphenidate Hydrochloride

NOTE: This preparation may contain one or more substances that are restricted in certain sports competitors should check with the appropriate sports authorities

Drug Profile

Dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride is the d-threo-enantiomer of racemic methylphenidate hydrochloride. It is used as a central stimulant in the treatment of hyperactivity disorders in children.

For patients new to methylphenidate the starting dose of dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride is 2.5 mg twice daily. Each dose should be given at least four hours apart. Dosage may be adjusted in 2.5 to 5 mg increments weekly to a maximum of 10 mg twice daily.

For patients currently using methylphenidate the starting dose of dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride is half the dose of the racemic substance. The maximum recommended dose is 10 mg twice daily. Dexmethylphenidate should be stopped if there is no improvement in symptoms after appropriate adjustments in dosage over one month. It also needs to be stopped from time to time in those who do respond to assess the patient's condition.

As this medication is a preperation of both dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride and methylphenidate hydrochloride :-

Uses and Administration, Adverse Effects, Treatment, and Precautions, Pharmacokinetics and Preparations please check out:- Martindale: The Complete Drug Reference and should be taken as to being appropriate to majority of the medications on this page that have either of the ingredients above - Ed.

Focalin is now available off licence in the UK though only on the same basis as Ritalin SR i.e. your pharmacist has to fax your prescription to BR Pharma on the following number (UK Only), (Tel:020 8238 6770). BR Pharma then deliver to the pharmacist the next day.

for adders.org

News