Methylphenidate

• Do not stop taking your medication without checking with your healthcare professional.
  
• Most methylphenidate preparations can be taken with or without food, except for Medikinet® MR. Medikinet® MR should be taken with or after food as it may affect the absorption of the medication into the body.
  
• For immediate-release preparations, do not take it too late in the evening as it may cause trouble sleeping.
  
• If you are taking the modified-release preparations, the capsules/tablets must not be crushed or chewed. For Ritalin® LA and Medikinet® MR, the capsules may be opened and the contents sprinkled onto a small amount (tablespoon) of room temperature or cold food (e.g. applesauce, yoghurt). It must be taken immediately and not stored for future use.
  
• Your doctor would start the medication at a low dose, and then slowly adjust the dose according to your response to the medication.
  
• For Concerta® ER, the tablet does not dissolve completely after all the medication has been released and sometimes the tablet shell may appear in your stools. This is normal.
  

If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Then take your next dose at the usual time. Do not take two doses to make up for the missed dose.