Let's take a minute to talk about your medication.  

This is methylphenidate extended-release. It is a generic version of the brand 'Ritalin LA'. 

This medicine is called a 'stimulant,' but it calms people with ADHD so they can focus, work and learn. It may have other uses, too.  

This medicine should be taken exactly as prescribed. The capsule must be swallowed whole with water. It should never be crushed or chewed. If needed, you can open the capsule, and sprinkle the medicine onto a spoonful of applesauce. Then, swallow the applesauce without chewing.   

At first, mild side effects could occur, like headache, stomach ache, a decrease in appetite, or trouble sleeping. If these or other side effects become reasons you want to stop treatment, please talk to your doctor or pharmacist.  

Your doctor may measure blood pressure and heart rate during therapy. Children should have their height and weight checked, too, to make sure their growth does not slow down.

As with any medicine, rare but serious side effects could occur. With this medicine, this includes mental changes. You should watch for worsening moods, behaviors or thoughts. Also, watch for other changes like seeing, hearing or believing things that are not real. If any of these occur, call your doctor right away. You should read the Medication Guide for full information about these and other rare but serious effects, like changes to eyesight, heart problems and painful erections.

Remember to check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking other medicines, even if they do not require a prescription. You should never take this medicine with alcohol.

This medicine could be abused or misused by others, so you must store it securely. 

For best results with this medicine, work with your doctor to find the lowest dose that works best.