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ADHD is a disorder that affects 3 to 5% of the population. Adult patients are often underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed. Treatment of ADHD is not an easy process. Concerta is a drug supporting the therapy of people diagnosed with ADHD. What is the composition of Concerta and what is its mechanism of action?
ADHD – short description
ADHD is an attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. This syndrome is a disorder that has its origins in early childhood. The main and most common groups of ADHD symptoms are hypermobility, attention deficit disorder and excessive impulsivity. ADHD symptoms are greatest between the ages of 6 and 9, which is often associated with starting school duties, including adherence to rules and restrictions. ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder, which means that it results from a malfunction in the central nervous system. In children with ADHD, different parts of the brain develop unevenly, which contributes to the worsening of symptoms. Treatment of ADHD requires complex methods of management, including psychoeducation, psychotherapy, skills training and pharmacotherapy, including the use of Concerta.
Concerta – composition and action
Concerta is a mild agent that stimulates the work of the central nervous system. The active substance of Concerta is methylphenidate, an organic chemical compound from the phenylethylamine group. Methylphenidate is a dopamine and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. The mechanism of action of methylphenidate in the treatment of ADHD is not fully understood. This substance probably works by stimulating the cortex and stimulating an activating reticular formation. Methylphenidate, when used in people with ADHD, has a sedative effect, which means that it helps to focus attention, reduces sleepiness and improves concentration. Methylphenidate has psychoactive properties, therefore its use may be addictive. The way this substance works on the human body is comparable to that of cocaine.
Concerta – indications and contraindications
Concerta is used to treat the symptoms of ADHD. The drug is indicated for use in children over 6 years of age. Treatment with Concerta XL is part of a comprehensive treatment program for this disorder. The use of Concerta XL must always be monitored by a doctor. Unfortunately, not all people with ADHD can use Concerta XL. Hypersensitivity to any of the components of the drug is a contraindication to the use of this preparation. In addition, a number of diseases are listed that are a contraindication to reaching for Concerta. These diseases include: pheochromocytoma, hyperthyroidism, cardiovascular disorders, cerebrovascular disorders, brain aneurysm, schizophrenia and other psychiatric disorders.
Concerta – the correct dosage of the drug
The dose of Concerta XL should always be determined by your doctor. The drug should be taken orally and according to the instructions in the package leaflet, in the case of people starting treatment, the daily dose of the drug should be 18 mg. The dose should be adjusted according to the patient’s response to treatment and increased by 18 mg at about weekly intervals. The maximum daily dose of this medicine is 54 mg.
Before use, read the leaflet, which contains indications, contraindications, data on side effects and dosage as well as information on the use of the medicinal product, or consult your doctor or pharmacist, as each drug used improperly is a threat to your life or health.