## Effects - Since it's only an uptake inhibitor, you need to fill dopamine yourself unlike other [[ADHD Medication]] - Concentration is good, but motivation can still be stunted if you have depression - Helps with narcolepsy as well - subtle, not overly wired - https://www.reddit.com/r/ADHD/comments/14hy5d/the_good_and_the_bad_side_of_concerta_how_do_you/ ## Side Effects Works, but side effects tend to amplify negative behaviors. Effects include: - Anxiety - Insomnia - Mind starts to race after - I noticed this, feeling existential or restless during night - Binge-eating - Appetite loss and food aversion - [Could be related to overstimulation or burnout](https://www.reddit.com/r/ADHD/comments/16l3o6g/what_do_you_do_when_you_cant_eat_anything/) - Find safe foods - Might not release fully, causing buildup - I visited my GP and she said the slow release was building up in my body, wasn’t fully releasing daily and she changed me to Ritalin 10mg. - My own biggest notice has been [[Emotional blunting]], but apparently vyvanse can help with that for happiness and motivation ### Withdrawal https://www.reddit.com/r/Concerta/comments/ye9xdu/its_been_45_days_since_i_quit_concerta_27mg_after/ ## Extended Release Cycle Generic brand does not have the same delivery system Based on 18mg: 1. **Initial release**: Upon ingestion, the outer layer of the tablet dissolves relatively quickly, releasing an initial dose of methylphenidate, which might be around 3-5mg. This initial release typically occurs within the first hour after ingestion. 2. **Controlled release over time**: After the initial release, the osmotic-controlled release system starts to work. Water from the gastrointestinal tract enters the tablet through the semi-permeable membrane, creating pressure inside the tablet. 3. **Gradual release**: As water enters, it gradually pushes the medication out through a small hole or port in the tablet. This process ensures that a controlled amount of methylphenidate is released into the bloodstream over an extended period. 4. **Extended duration**: The extended-release mechanism continues to release methylphenidate over the next 8-12 hours, maintaining a steady concentration of the medication in the bloodstream. **Initial release**: Around 3-5mg within the first hour. **Extended release**: The remaining 13-15mg is released gradually over the next 8-12 hours, providing symptom relief throughout the day.