Concerta Signs, Symptoms And Side Effects
Concerta can be addictive. Individuals misusing Concerta may display signs like people who take amphetamine. Signs of addiction to Concerta may include rushed speech, nausea, vomiting, dry, mouth, weight loss, stomach pain, headaches, irritability, decreased appetite, numbness, blurred vision, skin rash, sweating and difficulty sleeping.
Patients who regularly misuse Concerta may experience psychiatric disturbances such as hostility, delusions and paranoia. Other side effects may include higher body temperature, cardiovascular complications, increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure and stroke.
Dopamine and norepinephrine are closely involved with functions of higher reasoning such as problem-solving, delaying gratification. By inhibiting the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine, their effects increase.
Adults with ADHD taking Concerta typically start with an 18 mg or 36 mg daily dose. Its extended release OROS technology quickly releases 22 percent of the drug, followed by a gradual release of the remaining 78 percent between two layers of coating.
Personal and professional relationships may be strained as the patient becomes increasingly irritable. Anxiety and depression may occur. Symptoms should be reported to the prescribing doctor as they evolve. It may be necessary to discontinue use of Concerta as symptoms become unmanageable. Upon the initial onset of addictive symptoms, the doctor may try tapering back the dose for a month to see how the patient responds. If only negligible improvements occur, use will likely be halted.
Cessation of Concerta treatment can trigger withdrawals. Withdrawal symptoms can be minimized by gradually decreasing doses over the course of a week or longer. Withdrawals may include insomnia, depression, vivid nightmares, drug cravings, fatigue, hunger, somnolence and anhedonia (the inability to feel pleasure). If you or someone you know is struggling with Concerta addiction, The Recovery Village can help patients get connected with a suitable addiction recovery program.
Medical Disclaimer: The Recovery Village aims to improve the quality of life for people struggling with a substance use or mental health disorder with fact-based content about the nature of behavioral health conditions, treatment options and their related outcomes. We publish material that is researched, cited, edited and reviewed by licensed medical professionals. The information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider.
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