WARNING

Quillivant XR is an extended-release form of methylphenidate, a medication commonly used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). While it can be effective for managing ADHD symptoms, it’s important to be aware of potential risks and side effects. Keep in mind that individual responses to medications can vary, and it’s crucial to discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider. Here are some potential risks associated with Quillivant XR:

• Common Side Effects: Like many medications, Quillivant XR may cause common side effects such as insomnia, decreased appetite, weight loss, and increased blood pressure.
• Cardiovascular Effects: Methylphenidate, the active ingredient in Quillivant XR, can increase heart rate and blood pressure. Individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions should use this medication with caution.
• Psychiatric Effects: Some individuals may experience psychiatric side effects, including anxiety, agitation, mood swings, or even exacerbation of existing psychiatric conditions.
• Growth Suppression in Children: Long-term use of stimulant medications like Quillivant XR in children has been associated with a temporary slowing of growth. Regular monitoring of height and weight is recommended.
• Abuse Potential: As a stimulant, Quillivant XR has the potential for abuse, especially in individuals with a history of substance abuse. It should be used with caution and under close supervision.
• Allergic Reactions: Although rare, some people may experience allergic reactions to the medication, leading to symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
• Gastrointestinal Issues: Quillivant XR may cause stomach upset, nausea, or vomiting in some individuals.
• Withdrawal Symptoms: Abruptly stopping Quillivant XR may lead to withdrawal symptoms, including fatigue, depression, and an increased appetite.

It’s essential to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully, report any side effects promptly, and attend regular follow-up appointments. Your healthcare provider will monitor your response to the medication and make adjustments as needed to ensure both its effectiveness and your safety.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Quillivant XR is a brand name for a prescription medication known as methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release oral suspension. It is a central nervous system stimulant used in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). ADHD is a neurobehavioral disorder characterized by symptoms such as impulsivity, hyperactivity, and inattention.

The active ingredient in Quillivant XR, methylphenidate, works by increasing the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly dopamine and norepinephrine. These neurotransmitters play a role in regulating attention and impulse control.

How should this medicine be used?

Here are some key points regarding the use of Quillivant XR:

• Prescription for ADHD: Quillivant XR is prescribed to individuals diagnosed with ADHD. The diagnosis is typically made based on a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional, considering symptoms, medical history, and other relevant factors.
• Extended-Release Formulation: Quillivant XR is an extended-release formulation, meaning that the medication is released gradually over an extended period. This allows for once-daily dosing, providing continuous symptom control throughout the day.
• Administration: It comes in the form of an oral suspension, and it is taken by mouth. It’s important to follow the dosage instructions provided by the prescribing healthcare professional.
• Dosage: The dosage will be determined by the healthcare provider based on factors such as the individual’s age, weight, and response to the medication. It’s important not to adjust the dosage without consulting the prescribing healthcare professional.
• Time of Administration: Quillivant XR is typically taken in the morning with or without food. Taking it later in the day may cause difficulty sleeping.
• Shake Well Before Use: Before each use, the bottle should be shaken well to ensure that the medication is properly mixed.
• Avoid Crushing or Chewing: The medication should not be crushed or chewed. It is designed to be taken as a suspension.
• Regular Monitoring: Individuals taking Quillivant XR should be regularly monitored by their healthcare provider to assess the medication’s effectiveness and to manage any potential side effects.
• Side Effects: Like any medication, Quillivant XR can cause side effects. Common side effects may include insomnia, decreased appetite, weight loss, and increased blood pressure. Serious side effects are rare but can include allergic reactions and cardiovascular issues.

It’s crucial to use Quillivant XR exactly as prescribed and to communicate regularly with the prescribing healthcare professional to ensure optimal effectiveness and safety. If there are any concerns or if side effects occur, it’s important to contact the healthcare provider promptly.

Other uses for this medicine

Quillivant XR (methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release oral suspension) is primarily used for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). However, it’s important to note that medications should only be used for the specific purposes for which they are prescribed by a healthcare professional. Off-label use, or using a medication for purposes other than those approved by regulatory agencies, is not recommended without proper medical guidance.

What special precautions should I follow?

As for special precautions when using Quillivant XR, it’s crucial to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and inform them about your medical history and any other medications or supplements you may be taking. Here are some general precautions:

• Medical History: Inform your healthcare provider about your complete medical history, especially if you have a history of heart problems, high blood pressure, seizures, mental/mood conditions, circulation problems, or any other significant health issues.
• Allergies: If you are allergic to methylphenidate or any other ingredients in Quillivant XR, inform your healthcare provider.
• Drug Interactions: Provide a list of all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are currently taking to ensure there are no potential interactions. Certain medications may interact with Quillivant XR, including monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), and careful monitoring is needed if used concomitantly.
• Cardiovascular Effects: Methylphenidate can have cardiovascular effects, so your healthcare provider may need to monitor your heart rate and blood pressure regularly. This is especially important for individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions.
• Seizures: Quillivant XR may lower the seizure threshold. If you have a history of seizures, discuss this with your healthcare provider before starting the medication.
• Mental/Mood Changes: Methylphenidate can sometimes cause mental/mood changes, including agitation, aggression, mood swings, or depression. Report any significant changes to your healthcare provider.
• Growth Suppression in Children: There is evidence that stimulant medications like Quillivant XR may lead to a slowing of growth in children. Regular monitoring of height and weight is typically recommended.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider. The use of stimulant medications during pregnancy is a complex decision that should be made in consultation with a healthcare professional.

Always take Quillivant XR exactly as prescribed, and do not adjust the dosage without consulting your healthcare provider. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects, contact your healthcare provider promptly. Regular follow-up appointments are essential to monitor the effectiveness and safety of the medication.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary instructions associated with Quillivant XR. However, taking the medication with or without food is generally acceptable. If you have concerns about how your diet may interact with the medication, discuss this with your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it is close to the time of your next scheduled dose.
• If it is near the time of your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule.
• Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed dose.
• If you are unsure about what to do, contact your healthcare provider for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Quillivant XR (methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release oral suspension) can cause both common and less common side effects. It’s important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and the severity can vary from person to person. If you are prescribed Quillivant XR, your healthcare provider will monitor your response to the medication and adjust the dosage if necessary. Here are some potential side effects associated with Quillivant XR:

• Insomnia or Sleep Disturbances: Stimulant medications like Quillivant XR can cause difficulty sleeping. It is generally recommended to take the medication in the morning to minimize the impact on sleep.
• Decreased Appetite: Some individuals may experience a decrease in appetite, which can lead to weight loss. This is a common side effect of stimulant medications.
• Stomach Upset: Nausea and stomach upset may occur, especially when starting the medication. Taking it with food may help alleviate this.
• Nervousness or Anxiety: Stimulant medications can sometimes increase feelings of nervousness or anxiety. If these symptoms are severe, it’s important to discuss them with your healthcare provider.
• Increased Blood Pressure and Heart Rate: Methylphenidate can lead to increases in blood pressure and heart rate. Regular monitoring of these parameters is typically recommended, especially in individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions.
• Mood Changes: Some individuals may experience mood changes, including irritability or mood swings. If you notice significant changes in mood or behavior, it’s important to inform your healthcare provider.
• Allergic Reactions: Although rare, allergic reactions such as skin rash, itching, or swelling may occur. Seek medical attention if you experience signs of an allergic reaction.
• Tics: In some cases, stimulant medications can exacerbate or trigger tics in individuals who have a pre-existing tic disorder.
• Growth Suppression in Children: Long-term use of stimulant medications may lead to a slowing of growth in children. Regular monitoring of height and weight is typically recommended.
• Psychiatric Symptoms: Stimulant medications may worsen symptoms in individuals with pre-existing psychiatric conditions, such as bipolar disorder or psychotic disorders.

It’s important to report any side effects or concerns to your healthcare provider promptly. They can provide guidance on managing side effects and may adjust the dosage or consider alternative treatments if necessary. Additionally, your healthcare provider will monitor your overall health and response to the medication through regular check-ups and discussions. If you have specific concerns or questions about Quillivant XR, it’s best to discuss them with your prescribing healthcare professional.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage of Quillivant XR:

• Store Quillivant XR at room temperature (25°C or 77°F).
• Keep it in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture.
• Ensure that the bottle is tightly closed.
• Do not freeze the medication.
• Keep it out of reach of children.

Disposal of Quillivant XR:

• Follow specific disposal instructions provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
• Do not flush medications down the toilet unless instructed to do so.
• Properly discard any unused or expired medication.
• If you have questions about disposal, consult with your pharmacist or local waste disposal facility.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of an emergency or suspected overdose, contact your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 or seek emergency medical attention immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include:

• Restlessness
• Tremor
• Confusion
• Hallucinations
• Rapid breathing
• Panic
• Aggression
• Muscle pain or weakness
• Dark-colored urine
• Seizures

What other information should I know?

• Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, as they may interact with Quillivant XR.
• Attend regular check-ups to monitor your response to the medication.
• Do not adjust the dosage without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Report any new or worsening psychiatric symptoms to your healthcare provider.
• Discuss any concerns about side effects, behavior changes, or other issues with your healthcare provider promptly.
• Inform healthcare providers about your ADHD medication if you are undergoing surgery or dental procedures.
• Quillivant XR may affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. Assess your response to the medication before engaging in such activities.
• Avoid consuming alcohol while taking Quillivant XR.

Always follow the advice and instructions provided by your healthcare provider. If you have specific questions or concerns about Quillivant XR, do not hesitate to reach out to your prescribing healthcare professional or pharmacist for clarification.