Aptensio: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, & More

What Is Aptensio?

Aptensio is an ADHD medication used for individuals aged six and older that contains methylphenidate, a stimulant medication commonly used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).¹ As a stimulant, Aptensio works by increasing two chemicals in the brain, dopamine and norepinephrine, which play a major role in attention and impulsivity.² By increasing these chemicals, individuals with ADHD can have improved attention, reduced impulsivity, and decreased hyperactivity.

What’s the Difference Between Ritalin & Aptensio?

Aptensio and Ritalin are both medications used to treat ADHD symptoms and share the same active ingredient, methylphenidate. The medications differ in their formulations. Ritalin comes in both immediate-release and extended-release formulations. Aptensio is only available as an extended-release medication. The extended-release Ritalin lasts approximately 8 hours, while Aptensio lasts up to 12 hours.³

How is Aptensio Different From Concerta?

Concerta is another medication used to treat ADHD that contains methylphenidate. Concerta and Aptensio are both extended-release medications with a similar duration of activity of 12 hours. Concerta, however, reaches its peak level in the body more slowly than Aptensio.^{2, 4} Because of this, Concerta may take longer to reach maximum effectiveness after taking the medication.

Is There a Generic Form of Aptensio?

The active ingredient of Aptnesio is methylphenidate, of which many generic formulations are available. A generic version of Aptensio is available from the same drug manufacturer.⁵

How Does Aptensio Work?

Aptensio works by impacting certain chemicals in the brain, specifically dopamine and norepinephrine, that are involved in attention and impulse control. As a stimulant medication, Aptensio increases the levels of these chemicals. This can help individuals with ADHD improve their attention and focus while decreasing impulsivity and hyperactivity.

What Is Aptensio Used to Treat?

Aptensio is FDA-approved for the treatment of ADHD symptoms in individuals aged six years and older. FDA approval means that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has reviewed and determined the medication is safe and effective for a specific condition.

Aptensio (methylphenidate) can also be used off-label to treat other conditions. Off-label means a healthcare provider prescribes medication for purposes not specifically approved by the FDA. In this case, a healthcare provider may choose to do this if they believe it may still offer a benefit for a specific individual. Off-label uses of methylphenidate include fatigue in patients with cancer, treatment-resistant depression, and apathy in Alzheimer’s disease.⁶

Side Effects of Aptensio

Aptensio can cause various side effects, ranging from mild to severe. It is important to remember that everyone reacts differently to medications, and some may not experience any side effects. Most side effects of Aptensio are mild and will resolve over time as the body adjusts to the new medication. However, some side effects can be severe or persistent, requiring medical attention or medication changes.

Common Side Effects of Aptensio

The most common side effects are mild and will often resolve over time. These side effects can impact the nervous system, gastrointestinal system, and appetite. If these symptoms are persistent or severe, immediate medical care may be needed.

Common side effects of Aptensio include:^{1, 2}

• Headache
• Insomnia
• Dizziness
• Abdominal pain
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Decreased appetite

*All medications, including Aptensio, can cause side effects which can be mild or serious. This is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects. You should talk with your doctor about any questions you have and to understand the potential side effects and benefits of any medication.

Serious Side Effects of Aptensio

Some side effects of Aptensio can be severe and require immediate medical attention. These side effects include impacts on the heart, lungs, and nervous system. It is important to be aware of these possibilities and seek help if they occur.

Serious side effects of Aptensio may include:^{1, 2}

• Chest pain
• Irregular heartbeat
• Shortness of breath
• Hallucinations
• Seizures

*All medications, including Aptensio, can cause side effects which can be mild or serious. This is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects. You should talk with your doctor about any questions you have and to understand the potential side effects and benefits of any medication.

Allergic Reactions to Aptensio

Allergic reactions to Aptensio are possible, although they are rare. Individuals with a known hypersensitivity to methylphenidate or any of the medication’s other components should avoid its use. Those with a history of allergic reactions to medications should inform their healthcare provider before starting Aptensio. Immediate medical attention is crucial if any signs of an allergic reaction occur.

Allergic reactions to Aptensio may include:⁷

• Difficulty breathing
• Wheezing
• Hives
• Swelling of the face, mouth, or throat
• Difficulty swallowing
• Itching

If an individual is experiencing an allergic reaction, they should seek medical attention immediately for treatment. After treatment of the allergic reaction, Aptensio should no longer be used. There are many other medications for the treatment of ADHD to try as an alternative.

Aptensio Warnings & Precautions

Before starting Aptensio, it is important to know the warnings and precautions associated with its use. Some individuals may be at a higher risk for severe side effects from the medication, such as those with a history of heart or psychiatric problems. Individuals at higher risk may require more frequent monitoring, or they may want to avoid Aptensio and consider alternative treatment options.

Precautions for taking Aptensio address:^{1, 2}

• Taking Aptensio during pregnancy: The effect of Aptensio on a developing fetus is unclear. The decision to continue taking Aptensio during pregnancy should be made in conjunction with a healthcare provider.
• Taking Aptensio and breastfeeding: Methylphenidate is excreted in breast milk at low doses, but the impact on breastfed infants is unknown. The decision to breastfeed while taking Aptensio should be made in conjunction with a healthcare provider.
• Abuse and addiction: Aptensio is a stimulant medication and has a high potential for abuse. Individuals with a history of abuse or addiction may want to consider alternative medications.
• Heart disease: Individuals with a history of serious heart disease should avoid Aptensio as there have been reports of sudden death in these individuals.
• Blood pressure: Stimulant medications, such as Aptensio, can cause an increase in blood pressure and should be used with caution in those with hypertension.
• Psychiatric reactions: Stimulant medications can worsen disturbances in behavior in those with a history of symptoms of mania or psychosis.
• Sustained erections: Prolonged and painful erections have been associated with methylphenidate use.
• Tics and Tourette’s Syndrome: Individuals with a history of tics or Tourette’s syndrome may notice worsened tic symptoms with stimulant medications.
• Glaucoma: Aptensio can increase the pressure inside the eyes for individuals at risk for glaucoma.

Interactions With Aptensio

Aptensio may interact with certain medications, substances, and herbs. It is important to inform your healthcare provider of all substances you are using to minimize the risk of severe side effects and harmful interactions.

Five substances you should avoid while taking Aptensio include:^{1, 2}

• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs): Taking Aptensio with MAOIs can cause severe elevations in blood pressure, which can lead to stroke, heart attacks, and death.
• Antihypertensive drugs: Aptensio may decrease the effectiveness of drugs used to lower blood pressure.
• Drugs for anesthesia: Aptensio can increase the risk of problems with blood pressure and heart rate when used with anesthetics for surgery.
• Risperidone: Aptensio can increase the risk of side effects caused by risperidone.
• Alcohol: Taking alcohol with Aptensio may lead to a rapid release of the methylphenidate dose.

This is not a comprehensive list of the possible interactions with Aptensio. You should talk with your healthcare provider and your pharmacist about all prescription and over-the-counter medications, herbs, and supplements you take before starting Aptensio.

Aptensio Dosages for FDA-Approved Treatment

The appropriate dosage of Aptensio varies among individuals and is determined by factors such as age, weight, medical history, and individual response to the medication. Aptensio is typically started at a low dose and gradually adjusted based on the individual’s response. The medication is approved for use in individuals aged six years and older, and dosages are altered based on the unique requirements of children and adults.

Aptensio Forms & Strengths

Aptensio is only available in extended-release capsules, although there are generic immediate-release methylphenidate formulations. Extended-release formulations offer the benefit of less frequent dosing and more gradual impacts of the medication.  Aptensio reaches a maximum level in the body after 2 hours of consumption, but effects are typically noticed within 2 hours.

Aptensio is available in the following forms and strengths:¹

• 10 mg extended-release capsules
• 15 mg extended-release capsules
• 20 mg extended-release capsules
• 30 mg extended-release capsules
• 40 mg extended-release capsules
• 50 mg extended-release capsules
• 60 mg extended-release capsules

How Long Does it Take for Aptensio to Work?

Some individuals may notice effects from Aptensio after the first dose. However, it may take several weeks to reach the maximum benefit from the medication.³

How Should I Take Aptensio?

Follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider and pharmacist. Aptensio is typically taken once in the morning. It can be taken with or without food. Aptensio capsules can be swallowed whole. However, for those with swallowing difficulties, you can open the capsule and sprinkle the contents on food such as applesauce.⁷

What Happens If I Miss a Dose of Aptensio?

If you miss a dose of Aptensio, you can take the medication as soon as you remember it. However, if it is late in the day, you should skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Taking the medication too late in the day may cause difficulty falling asleep. Never double your dose to make up for a missed dose.

Can You Become Addicted to Aptensio?

Aptensio, like other stimulants, carries the risk of dependency and abuse. To lower this risk, healthcare providers follow special protocols when prescribing Aptensio to prevent misuse of prescription stimulants. This includes limiting how much can be prescribed at one time and having regular follow-up visits to assess the medication’s effectiveness and monitor for signs of misuse.

If the medication is taken at high doses or for prolonged periods, individuals may develop dependence in which stopping the medication causes withdrawal symptoms. If dependency or misuse occurs, a medical detox or supervised medication discontinuation may be needed. A medical detox involves a structured process to safely manage withdrawal symptoms under the supervision of healthcare professionals. A supervised medication discontinuation entails a gradual tapering of the medication to minimize withdrawal effects.

Can You Overdose on Aptensio?

Overdose of Aptensio is possible and can have serious short-term and long-term health effects. Taking too much Aptensio can lead to several side effects, including vomiting, seizures, hallucinations, and an irregular heartbeat.

What Should You Do If You Take Too Much Aptensio?

If an overdose is suspected, you can call the poison control helpline at 1-800-222-1222. Seek immediate medical help or call 911 if severe symptoms occur, such as seizures, difficulty breathing, or coma.

Questions to Ask Your Healthcare Provider About Aptensio

Before starting Aptensio, it is important to fully understand this medication’s risks and benefits. To maximize its effectiveness and lower the risk for side effects, it is important to have an open conversation with your physician, psychiatrist, or therapist. If you need to find a psychiatrist, one option to consider is online psychiatry services. These services allow you to connect with a provider from your home, providing ease and convenience.

Questions to ask your care team about Aptensio include:

• How long will it take for me to adjust to taking Aptensio?
• What can I expect when I first start taking the medication?
• Am I at risk for more serious symptoms if I am already taking medication treatments for other mental health disorders?
• What is the best dosage to ensure fewer side effects?
• When should I reach out to you if I am experiencing sexual side effects?
• Is there anything I should tell my therapist about this new medication?
• Are there any specific lifestyle changes to consider while taking Aptensio?
• How frequently should I schedule follow-up appointments?
• What are alternative options for the treatment of ADHD?

For Further Reading

• 10 Tips for Healthy Living With ADHD as an Adult
• ADHD in Men: Signs, Symptoms, & Treatments
• Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
• ADHD Symptoms & Signs
• Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) – CDC