Concerta has a
Highlights
- Concerta is available only by prescription that can be obtained in-person or online after a consultation with a healthcare provider.
- Concerta is FDA-approved for ADHD in adults and children.
- Concerta has several contraindications and precautions, such as allergic reactions to ingredients in Concerta and taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors, which should be discussed with a healthcare provider beforehand.
Brand name: Concerta
Generic name: Methylphenidate
Drug class: Central nervous system (CNS) stimulants
Dosage forms: Extended-release tablets, extended-release capsules, oral solution (some are only available as a generic)
FDA-approved uses: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders. While lack of focus is its most well-known manifestation, symptoms can vary. Some people may also be less energetic, act impulsively more frequently, and be more disorganized compared to people without this condition.
When talking about ADHD medication, Concerta is among the most effective prescription medicines. Dive into this article to get an idea about Concerta, how it works, and how to get a Concerta prescription online.
What Is Concerta?
Concerta is a prescription medication approved by the FDA to treat ADHD. It contains the active ingredient methylphenidate, a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant. It is available in extended-release tablets providing a longer duration of action. Generic Concerta, methylphenidate, is available as extended-release capsules and as an oral liquid. The prescribed dosage usually ranges from 18 mg to 36 mg, taken once daily in the morning, as best determined by a healthcare professional.
What Is Concerta Used for?
Taking Concerta helps treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder; it effectively addresses excessive activity, inattention, and impulsivity, among other symptoms. It is also used off-label to help manage a lack of energy, obesity, and depression.
How to Get Prescribed
Concerta Online at MEDvidi?
Note that booking an appointment doesn’t guarantee obtaining a prescription. The decision is at the discretion of your healthcare provider.
Do You Need a Prescription for Concerta?
Yes, Concerta is a prescription medication. Your healthcare provider can write a prescription for it after an online or in-person consultation. They will assess your symptoms, medical history, and other factors to make the most appropriate treatment plan for you. Obtaining Concerta without a valid prescription is illegal and dangerous.
Who Can Prescribe Concerta?
Only healthcare providers registered with the DEA (Drug Enforcement Administration) can prescribe Concerta since it is a controlled substance. Medical professionals who can prescribe Concerta include:
- Psychiatrists. These are medical doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions, including ADHD. Based on the results of your mental health assessment, they can prescribe Concerta or another appropriate medication.
- Primary Care Physicians. These are doctors of internal medicine, family physicians, and doctors from other medical specialties who provide comprehensive medical care.
- Other Medical Professionals. Nurse practitioners (NPs) and physician assistants (PAs) may also be able to prescribe Concerta if they have certain prescribing credentials and are allowed by their state of practice.
Can You Get Prescribed Concerta Online?
In order to get Concerta prescribed online, given it is a
If your healthcare provider determines that you’ll benefit from taking Concerta for ADHD, they will then prescribe it online. The online prescription will be sent to a local pharmacy of your choice.
How to Get Concerta Prescription Online With MEDvidi
At MEDvidi, your online ADHD treatment starts with an initial video appointment with a healthcare provider. They will assess your symptoms and health history to create a treatment plan tailored to your needs. As a part of your treatment plan, they may prescribe you ADHD medication online, if deemed necessary.
To consult a healthcare provider at MEDvidi and receive a Concerta prescription online, if required, take the next steps:
- Sign up and fill out basic information to create an account.
- Schedule an appointment. Select a date and time for a video consultation with your provider.
- Have an initial appointment. Discuss your symptoms, any previous treatments, and health history with a qualified healthcare provider online to determine the most suitable treatment strategy.
- Receive a prescription if required. If medication seems to be the most suitable option, you will get prescribed Concerta online. Your prescription will be sent digitally to a local pharmacy of your choice.
- Attend follow-ups. Follow-up appointments are needed for ongoing care and prescription refills. During these visits, you’ll discuss your response to treatment, adjust the plan if needed, and get prescription refills or renewals. If you get prescribed Concerta, you may need to have follow-ups more often since it’s a controlled substance. Discuss the frequency of visits individually with your provider.
Note that based on your individual health needs, they may prescribe another medication or recommend non-pharmacological options.
MEDvidi operates in the following states:
Arizona (AZ), California (CA), Colorado (CO), Florida (FL), Georgia (GA), Idaho (ID), Illinois (IL), Indiana (IN), Kansas (KS), Kentucky (KY), Maine (ME), Massachusetts (MA), Michigan (MI), Minnesota (MN), Nebraska (NE), New Mexico (NM), New York (NY), North Carolina (NC), Ohio (OH), Oregon (OR), Pennsylvania (PA), Tennessee (TN), Texas (TX), Vermont (VT), Virginia (VA), Washington (WA), Wisconsin (WI), Wyoming (WY)
As a part of online ADHD treatment, MEDvidi providers are able to prescribe Concerta online according to local protocols.
How Does Concerta Work for ADHD?
Concerta inhibits the reuptake of neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine, which play a role in regulating attention and improving impulse control. This results in increased levels of these neurotransmitters in the brain, thereby relieving the symptoms of ADHD by improving concentration and decreasing hyperactivity in patients with ADHD.
Side Effects of Concerta for ADHD
While not everyone who takes Concerta encounters side effects, in some cases, individuals may experience some adverse reactions. According to the
- Decreased appetite
- Trouble sleeping
- Dry mouth
- Stomach issues
- Sweating
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Nausea
- Weight loss
- Irritability, particularly if the medication is wearing off
- Upper abdominal pain in children
Not too often, but some patients may experience severe side effects. In such cases, it is advisable to contact a healthcare professional immediately. These severe side effects may include the following:
- Eyesight problem or blurred vision
- Priapism (painful and prolonged erections)
- Slow growth in children
- Circulation problems in your fingers and toes
- Seizures
- Numbness
This is not a complete list of side effects. If you experience any of these or other severe adverse effects, seek medical attention promptly. Always be sure to tell your healthcare provider about any side effects you experience while taking Concerta.
Concerta Precautions and Interactions
Although Concerta is often effective in the treatment of ADHD, it is not suitable for certain situations and individuals. Consider the following precautions:
- Monitor blood pressure closely, and cautiously use medications that may increase it, because Concerta may cause high blood pressure.
- Adjust the dose when using blood thinners, anticonvulsants, and certain antidepressants when needed, based on your healthcare provider’s recommendations.
- Avoid takingConcerta if you have a heart disease, Tourette’s syndrome, bipolar disorder, or mania. Discuss it with your healthcare provider while choosing an appropriate medication.
- Don’t suddenly discontinue Concerta unless directed by your healthcare provider to prevent withdrawal symptoms like abnormal thoughts, aggressive behavior, and fatigue.
- Individuals with a history of alcohol or drug dependency shouldn’t take Concerta.
- Patients taking Suboxone/Buprenorphine have to contact their prescribing doctor in person and receive a letter stating that such a combination with Concerta is safe for them and is not contraindicated. With that letter, healthcare providers can prescribe Concerta online as well.
This may not be a complete list of precautions and interactions. Always tell your healthcare provider about your medical history. You should also tell them about any over-the-counter or prescription medications, supplements, or herbs you take or plan to take. This will allow your healthcare provider to ensure that Concerta is safe for you.
Concerta Cost
For the treatment of ADHD, Concerta’s starting dose can vary but is usually 18 mg a day. It may be adjusted to a higher dose in some patients. A monthly supply of 18 mg Concerta extended-release tablets costs around $390 to $450 while a monthly supply of generic 18 mg Concerta extended-tablets, methylphenidate, costs around $225 to $300 without insurance. You can talk with your pharmacy to learn about the cost of Concerta. You can also contact your insurance provider to check your coverage and see if they have any discount options.
It’s important to take Concerta exactly as your healthcare provider tells you. Do not change your dose if you are worried about affording your medication and talk with your healthcare provider about other options if needed.
Final Words
FAQ
Does Concerta require a prescription?
Can you buy Concerta online?
Who can prescribe Concerta?
Is there a shortage of Concerta?
In the past, there has been a shortage of ADHD medications. These shortages may also be ongoing for some medications. Examples of medications that have been affected by a shortage include Adderall, Vyvanse, and Focalin. You can talk with your healthcare provider or your pharmacy to check the availability of your medication.
What is the best alternative to Concerta?
A qualified healthcare professional can choose an alternative to Concerta based on individual health circumstances. Common alternatives include other methylphenidate medications like Ritalin or Daytarana, other stimulants such as Adderall (amphetamine/dextroamphetamine), Focalin (dexmethylphenidate), Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine), or non-stimulant medications like Strattera (atomoxetine) or Intuniv (guanfacine).
Can I be prescribed Concerta while on Suboxone treatment?
Because of safety concerns, patients must provide a letter from their clinician indicating that it is appropriate for them to receive a CNS stimulant medication like Concerta while taking Suboxone. Concurrent use of Concerta and Suboxone can be dangerous, consult with your healthcare provider for individualized advice.
