methylphenidate HCl 20 MG 50/50 Release 24HR Extended Release Oral Capsule
Generic Name: METHYLPHENIDATE HYDROCHLORIDE
Brand Name: Methylphenidate Hydrochloride
- Substance Name(s):
- METHYLPHENIDATE HYDROCHLORIDE
DRUG INTERACTIONS
Drug Interactions Methylphenidate is metabolized primarily by de-esterification (nonmicrosomal hydrolytic esterases) to ritalinic acid and not through oxidative pathways. The effects of gastrointestinal pH alterations on the absorption of methylphenidate from methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules (LA) have not been studied. Since the modified release characteristics of methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules (LA) are pH dependent, the coadministration of antacids or acid suppressants could alter the release of methylphenidate. Methylphenidate may decrease the effectiveness of drugs used to treat hypertension. Because of possible effects on blood pressure, methylphenidate should be used cautiously with pressor agents. As an inhibitor of dopamine reuptake, methylphenidate may be associated with pharmacodynamic interactions when coadministered with direct and indirect dopamine agonists (including DOPA and tricyclic antidepressants) as well as dopamine antagonists (antipsychotics, e.g., haloperidol). Case reports suggest a potential interaction of methylphenidate with coumarin anticoagulants, anticonvulsants (e.g., phenobarbital, phenytoin, primidone), and tricyclic drugs (e.g., imipramine, clomipramine, desipramine) but pharmacokinetic interactions were not confirmed when explored at higher sample sizes. Downward dose adjustment of these drugs may be required when given concomitantly with methylphenidate. It may be necessary to adjust the dosage and monitor plasma drug concentrations (or, in the case of coumarin, coagulation times), when initiating or discontinuing concomitant methylphenidate. Methylphenidate is not metabolized by cytochrome P450 to a clinically relevant extent. Inducers or inhibitors of cytochrome P450 are not expected to have any relevant impact on methylphenidate pharmacokinetics. Conversely, the d- and l-enantiomers of methylphenidate did not relevantly inhibit cytochrome P450 1A2, 2C8, 2C9, 2C19, 2D6, 2E1 or 3A. Methylphenidate coadministration did not increase plasma concentrations of the CYP2D6 substrate desipramine. An interaction with the anticoagulant ethylbiscoumacetate in 4 subjects was not confirmed in a subsequent study with a higher sample size (n=12). Other specific drug-drug interaction studies with methylphenidate have not been performed in vivo.
OVERDOSAGE
Signs and Symptoms Signs and symptoms of acute overdosage, resulting principally from overstimulation of the central nervous system 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. Rhabdomyolysis has also been reported in overdose. Poison Control Center Consult with a Certified Poison Control Center regarding treatment for up-to-date guidance and advice. Recommended Treatment As with the management of all overdosage, the possibility of multiple drug ingestion should be considered. When treating overdose, practitioners should bear in mind that there is a prolonged release of methylphenidate from methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules (LA). Treatment consists of appropriate supportive measures. The patient must be protected against self-injury and against external stimuli that would aggravate overstimulation already present. Gastric contents may be evacuated by gastric lavage as indicated. Before performing gastric lavage, control agitation and seizures if present and protect the airway. Other measures to detoxify the gut include administration of activated charcoal and a cathartic. Intensive care must be provided to maintain adequate circulation and respiratory exchange; external cooling procedures may be required for hyperpyrexia. Efficacy of peritoneal dialysis or extracorporeal hemodialysis for methylphenidate overdosage has not been established; also, dialysis is considered unlikely to be of benefit due to the large volume of distribution of methylphenidate.
DESCRIPTION
Methylphenidate hydrochloride, USP is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant. Methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules (LA) are an extended-release formulation of methylphenidate with a bi-modal release profile. Each bead-filled methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsule (LA) contains half the dose as immediate-release beads and half as enteric-coated, delayed-release beads, thus providing an immediate release of methylphenidate and a second delayed release of methylphenidate. Methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release 20, 30, and 40 mg capsules (LA) provide in a single dose the same amount of methylphenidate as dosages of 10, 15, or 20 mg of methylphenidate hydrochloride tablets given twice a day. The active substance in methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules (LA) is methyl α-phenyl-2-piperidineacetate hydrochloride, and its structural formula is Methylphenidate hydrochloride, USP is a white, odorless, fine crystalline powder. Its solutions are acid to litmus. It is freely soluble in water and in methanol, soluble in alcohol, and slightly soluble in chloroform and in acetone. Its molecular weight is 269.77. Inactive ingredients: sugar spheres (which contain sucrose and starch), hypromellose, cellulose acetate butyrate, hypromellose acetate succinate, acetyltributyl citrate, acetone, talc, and purified water. Opaque gelatin capsules contain: titanium dioxide and gelatin. The 30 and 40 mg capsules contain D&C Red #28 and FD&C Blue #1. The capsules are imprinted with black ink which contains black iron oxide, shellac and potassium hydroxide. 2d1ddec5-figure-01
HOW SUPPLIED
Methylphenidate Hydrochloride Extended-Release Capsules (LA) 20 mg: white/white (imprinted 200) Bottles of 100………………………………….NDC 45963-200-11 Bottles of 250………………………………….NDC 45963-200-25 Methylphenidate Hydrochloride Extended-Release Capsules (LA) 30 mg: white/light blue (imprinted 201) Bottles of 100…………………………………NDC 45963-201-11 Bottles of 250…………………………………NDC 45963-201-25 Methylphenidate Hydrochloride Extended-Release Capsules (LA) 40 mg: white/dark blue (imprinted 202) Bottles of 100………………………………….NDC 45963-202-11 Bottles of 250………………………………….NDC 45963-202-25 Store at 25°C (77°F); excursions permitted to 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature] Dispense in tight container (USP). 2d1ddec5-figure-04 2d1ddec5-figure-05 2d1ddec5-figure-06
INDICATIONS AND USAGE
Methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules (LA) are indicated for the treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The efficacy of methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules (LA) in the treatment of ADHD was established in 1 controlled trial of children aged 6 to 12 who met DSM-IV criteria for ADHD (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY). A diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD; DSM-IV) implies the presence of hyperactive-impulsive or inattentive symptoms that caused impairment and were present before age 7 years. The symptoms must cause clinically significant impairment, e.g., in social, academic, or occupational functioning, and be present in 2 or more settings, e.g., school (or work) and at home. The symptoms must not be better accounted for by another mental disorder. For the Inattentive Type, at least 6 of the following symptoms must have persisted for at least 6 months: lack of attention to details/careless mistakes; lack of sustained attention; poor listener; failure to follow through on tasks; poor organization; avoids tasks requiring sustained mental effort; loses things; easily distracted; forgetful. For the Hyperactive-Impulsive Type, at least 6 of the following symptoms must have persisted for at least 6 months: fidgeting/squirming; leaving seat; inappropriate running/climbing; difficulty with quiet activities; “on the go;” excessive talking; blurting answers; can’t wait turn; intrusive. The Combined Types requires both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive criteria to be met. Special Diagnostic Considerations Specific etiology of this syndrome is unknown, and there is no single diagnostic test. Adequate diagnosis requires the use not only of medical but of special psychological, educational, and social resources. Learning may or may not be impaired. The diagnosis must be based upon a complete history and evaluation of the child and not solely on the presence of the required number of DSM-IV characteristics. Need for Comprehensive Treatment Program Methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules (LA) are indicated as an integral part of a total treatment program for ADHD that may include other measures (psychological, educational, social) for patients with this syndrome. Drug treatment may not be indicated for all children with this syndrome. Stimulants are not intended for use in the child who exhibits symptoms secondary to environmental factors and/or other primary psychiatric disorders, including psychosis. Appropriate educational placement is essential and psychosocial intervention is often helpful. When remedial measures alone are insufficient, the decision to prescribe stimulant medication will depend upon the physician’s assessment of the chronicity and severity of the child’s symptoms. Long-Term Use The effectiveness of methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules (LA) for long-term use, i.e., for more than 2 weeks, has not been systematically evaluated in controlled trials. Therefore, the physician who elects to use methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules (LA) for extended periods should periodically re-evaluate the long-term usefulness of the drug for the individual patient (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION).
PEDIATRIC USE
Pediatric Use Long-term effects of methylphenidate in children have not been well established. Methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules (LA) should not be used in children under 6 years of age (see WARNINGS). In a study conducted in young rats, methylphenidate was administered orally at doses of up to 100 mg/kg/day for 9 weeks, starting early in the postnatal period (Postnatal Day 7) and continuing through sexual maturity (Postnatal Week 10). When these animals were tested as adults (Postnatal Weeks 13 to 14), decreased spontaneous locomotor activity was observed in males and females previously treated with 50 mg/kg/day (approximately 6 times the maximum recommended human dose [MRHD] on a mg/m2 basis) or greater, and a deficit in the acquisition of a specific learning task was seen in females exposed to the highest dose (12 times the MRHD on a mg/m2 basis). The no effect level for juvenile neurobehavioral development in rats was 5 mg/kg/day (half the MRHD on a mg/m2 basis). The clinical significance of the long-term behavioral effects observed in rats is unknown.
PREGNANCY
Pregnancy Pregnancy Category C In studies conducted in rats and rabbits, methylphenidate was administered orally at doses of up to 75 and 200 mg/kg/day, respectively, during the period of organogenesis. Teratogenic effects (increased incidence of fetal spina bifida) were observed in rabbits at the highest dose, which is approximately 40 times the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) on a mg/m2 basis. The no effect level for embryo-fetal development in rabbits was 60 mg/kg/day (11 times the MRHD on a mg/m2 basis). There was no evidence of specific teratogenic activity in rats, although increased incidences of fetal skeletal variations were seen at the highest dose level (7 times the MRHD on a mg/m2 basis), which was also maternally toxic. The no effect level for embryo-fetal development in rats was 25 mg/kg/day (2 times the MRHD on a mg/m2 basis). When methylphenidate was administered to rats throughout pregnancy and lactation at doses of up to 45 mg/kg/day, offspring body weight gain was decreased at the highest dose (4 times the MRHD on a mg/m2 basis), but no other effects on postnatal development were observed. The no effect level for pre- and postnatal development in rats was 15 mg/kg/day (equal to the MRHD on a mg/m2 basis). Adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women have not been conducted. Methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules (LA) should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
NUSRING MOTHERS
Nursing Mothers It is not known whether methylphenidate is excreted in human milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, caution should be exercised if methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules (LA) are administered to a nursing woman.
INFORMATION FOR PATIENTS
Information for Patients Prescribers or other health professionals should inform patients, their families, and their caregivers about the benefits and risks associated with treatment with methylphenidate and should counsel them in its appropriate use. A patient Medication Guide is available for methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules (LA). The prescriber or health professional should instruct patients, their families, and their caregivers to read the Medication Guide and should assist them in understanding its contents. Patients should be given the opportunity to discuss the contents of the Medication Guide and to obtain answers to any questions they may have. The complete text of the Medication Guide is reprinted at the end of this document. Patients should be advised to avoid alcohol while taking methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules (LA). Consumption of alcohol while taking methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules (LA) may result in a more rapid release of the dose of methylphenidate. Priapism Advise patients, caregivers, and family members of the possibility of painful or prolonged penile erections (priapism). Instruct the patient to seek immediate medical attention in the event of priapism. Circulation problems in fingers and toes [Peripheral vasculopathy, including Raynaud’s phenomenon] Instruct patients beginning treatment with methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules (LA) about the risk of peripheral vasculopathy, including Raynaud’s Phenomenon, and in associated signs and symptoms: fingers or toes may feel numb, cool, painful, and/or may change color from pale, to blue, to red. Instruct patients to report to their physician any new numbness, pain, skin color change, or sensitivity to temperature in fingers or toes. Instruct patients to call their physician immediately with any signs of unexplained wounds appearing on fingers or toes while taking methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules (LA). Further clinical evaluation (e.g., rheumatology referral) may be appropriate for certain patients.
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION
Administration of Dose Methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules (LA) are for oral administration once daily in the morning. Methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules (LA) may be swallowed as whole capsules or alternatively may be administered by sprinkling the capsule contents on a small amount of applesauce (see specific instructions below). Methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules (LA) and/or their contents should not be crushed, chewed, or divided. The capsules may be carefully opened and the beads sprinkled over a spoonful of applesauce. The applesauce should not be warm because it could affect the modified release properties of this formulation. The mixture of drug and applesauce should be consumed immediately in its entirety. The drug and applesauce mixture should not be stored for future use. Patients should be advised to avoid alcohol while taking methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules (LA). Dosing Recommendations Dosage should be individualized according to the needs and responses of the patients. Initial Treatment The recommended starting dose of methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules (LA) is 20 mg once daily. Dosage may be adjusted in weekly 10 mg increments to a maximum of 60 mg/day taken once daily in the morning, depending on tolerability and degree of efficacy observed. Daily dosage above 60 mg is not recommended. When in the judgement of the clinician a lower initial dose is appropriate, patients may begin treatment with methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules (LA) 10 mg. Patients Currently Receiving Methylphenidate The recommended dose of methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules (LA) for patients currently taking methylphenidate twice a day or sustained release (SR) is provided below. Previous Methylphenidate Dose Recommended Methylphenidate Hydrochloride Extended-Release Capsule (LA) Dose 5 mg methylphenidate twice a day 10 mg once a day 10 mg methylphenidate twice a day or 20 mg methylphenidate-SR 20 mg once a day 15 mg methylphenidate twice a day 30 mg once a day 20 mg methylphenidate twice a day or 40 mg of methylphenidate-SR 40 mg once a day 30 mg methylphenidate twice a day or 60 mg methylphenidate-SR 60 mg once a day For other methylphenidate regimens, clinical judgment should be used when selecting the starting dose. Methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsule (LA) dosage may be adjusted at weekly intervals in 10 mg increments. Daily dosage above 60 mg is not recommended. Maintenance/Extended Treatment There is no body of evidence available from controlled trials to indicate how long the patient with ADHD should be treated with methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules (LA). It is generally agreed, however, that pharmacological treatment of ADHD may be needed for extended periods. Nevertheless, the physician who elects to use methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules (LA) for extended periods in patients with ADHD should periodically re-evaluate the long-term usefulness of the drug for the individual patient with trials off medication to assess the patient’s functioning without pharmacotherapy. Improvement may be sustained when the drug is either temporarily or permanently discontinued. Dose Reduction and Discontinuation If paradoxical aggravation of symptoms or other adverse events occur, the dosage should be reduced, or, if necessary, the drug should be discontinued. If improvement is not observed after appropriate dosage adjustment over a 1-month period, the drug should be discontinued.