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  • Mental Health Issues
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  • Common Side EffectsCommon Side Effects
  • Serious Side EffectsSerious Side Effects
  • Long-Term Side EffectsLong-Term Side Effects
  • Risks & WarningsRisks & Warnings
  • Important Things to KnowImportant Things to Know
  • How to CopeHow to Cope
  • Managing Side EffectsManaging Side Effects
  • Should I Stop Taking It?Should I Stop Taking It?
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Concerta Side Effects

Zachary Reale, PharmD

Author: Zachary Reale, PharmD

Zachary Reale, PharmD

Zachary Reale PharmD

Zachary Reale is an accomplished pharmacist and an expert in medication counseling and community pharmacy. His expertise includes outpatient infusion and certification in medication therapy management.

See My Bio Editorial Policy
Headshot of Heidi Moawad, MD

Medical Reviewer: Heidi Moawad, MD Licensed medical reviewer

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Heidi Moawad MD

Heidi Moawad, MD is a neurologist with 20+ years of experience focusing on
mental health disorders, behavioral health issues, neurological disease, migraines, pain, stroke, cognitive impairment, multiple sclerosis, and more.

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Published: April 7, 2025
  • Common Side EffectsCommon Side Effects
  • Serious Side EffectsSerious Side Effects
  • Long-Term Side EffectsLong-Term Side Effects
  • Risks & WarningsRisks & Warnings
  • Important Things to KnowImportant Things to Know
  • How to CopeHow to Cope
  • Managing Side EffectsManaging Side Effects
  • Should I Stop Taking It?Should I Stop Taking It?
  • AlternativesAlternatives
  • How to GetHow to Get
  • Questions to AskQuestions to Ask
  • Prescriber's TipsPrescriber's Tips
  • Additional ResourcesAdditional Resources
Brand name:
Concerta
Generic name:
Methylphenidate Hydrochloride ER
Is the generic available:
Yes
Class of drug:
Stimulant
Boxed warning:
Yes
FDA-approved treatments:
ADHD
Common Off-label Uses (non-FDA approved):
Apathy in Alzheimer’s disease, fatigue in patients with cancer, depression
Common alternatives:

Adderall, Ritalin, Vyvanse

View Drug Class, FDA-Approved Uses, Off-Label Uses, and more

*An off-label use of a medication is a use that is not FDA-approved. Prescribers can decide to use a medication off-label because, in their professional judgment, they believe it may offer a benefit to someone.

Common Concerta side effects include anxiety, insomnia, and nausea. Some side effects may be severe, requiring medical attention. These may include a risk of substance misuse, symptoms of mania, or allergic reactions.

Many people consider stopping their medication due to side effects. If your Concerta side effects last longer than the first few weeks, talk to your provider. They can help you understand your treatment options, which may include a change in dosage, timing of dosage, or switching your medication.

If you are considering Concerta or want to discuss your current medication treatment with a provider, online psychiatry platforms, such as Circle Medical are a good place to start. The providers on these platforms can do assessments and consult you about your prescription. They can answer any questions you have about Concerta’s side effects and other risks.

Boxed Warning: Methylphenidate (Concerta) – Risk of medication misuse or abuse

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Methylphenidate, the active ingredient in Concerta, has a black box warning. These are the most serious types of warnings from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Concerta has a risk of misuse (abuse) which can lead to dependence on the medication.

Concerta is a controlled substance, which means that it’s more likely to be misused or cause dependence. There are federal and state laws that limit the amount of medication that can be prescribed or dispensed within a certain period of time.

Key Takeaways

  • Common Concerta side effects include insomnia, anxiety, and a loss of appetite. Serious side effects requiring medical attention can also occur.

  • If Concerta side effects last longer than a few weeks, your provider can help you determine next steps, which may include a change in dosage, timing of dosage, or medication.

  • There are several ways to cope with Concerta side effects, including self care practices, medication adjustments, and therapy.

  • If you are considering Concerta or an alternative, a good place to start is with an evaluation from a medical provider. Many online psychiatry platforms offer online assessments and medication management, such as Talkiatry or Circle Medical.

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Common Concerta Side Effects

Concerta can cause several common side effects affecting the digestive system, sleep, and emotional state. Some may require medical attention but many often improve on their own.

Common side effects of Concerta may include:*1

  • Loss of appetite
  • Headache
  • Dry mouth
  • Nausea
  • Insomnia
  • Anxiety
  • Dizziness
  • Weight loss
  • Irritability
  • Excessive sweating
  • Abdominal pain

*All medications, including Concerta, can cause side effects that 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 understand the potential side effects and benefits of any medication.

Serious Concerta Side Effects

Some side effects of Concerta may become severe or persistent. If you experience any of the serious side effects listed below, seek immediate medical care.

Serious side effects of Concerta that require immediate medical care include:*1

  • Allergic reactions include rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing
  • Misuse or dependence
  • Signs of heart problems such as chest pain
  • Increased blood pressure
  • Seizures
  • Panic attacks
  • Hallucinations
  • Serious heart events
  • Worsened tics or Tourette syndrome
  • Serotonin syndrome (too much serotonin in the body)
  • Symptoms of mania or psychosis
  • Signs of circulation problems, such as numbness, discoloration, or coldness in the extremities

*All medications, including Concerta, 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.

Long-term Concerta Side Effects

Taking Concerta for more than six months at a time may come with long-term risks. If you and your provider decide long-term treatment is best for you, discuss precautions and warnings. You can expect regular checkups that include blood tests, vision tests, heart tests, and others.1

Possible long-term side effects of Concerta include:1

  • Leukopenia (reduced circulation of white blood cells)
  • Vision changes
  • Growth suppression in children
  • Raynaud’s Syndrome (circulation problem causing numbness and feeling cold)
  • Dependence

Each person taking Concerta will respond differently, and not everyone may experience side effects.

It’s important to understand your risk and know what to do about serious side effects. If you experience any of these reactions, seek medical help immediately.

What Are the Risks & Warnings for Concerta?

Potential for Misuse & Addiction

Methylphenidate, the active ingredient in Concerta, has a black box warning. These are the most serious types of warnings from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Concerta has a risk of misuse (abuse) which can lead to dependence on the medication. If you think you or your loved one is showing signs of addiction to stimulant medication, such as Concerta, seek professional help as soon as possible.

Tics & Tourette Syndrome

Taking Concerta can cause muscle movements and tics. Those with a history or familial history of tics or Tourette’s syndrome should not take Concerta.

Seizures

Concerta can lower the threshold needed to have a seizure, making seizures more likely to occur. Those with a history of seizures should not take Concerta, and Concerta should be stopped if a seizure does happen.

Blood Circulation Problems

Concerta can cause circulatory issues, including Raynaud’s syndrome with symptoms such as skin discoloration and feeling cold. Signs and symptoms generally improve after reducing the dose or discontinuing the medication.

Pregnancy

Concerta has been known to cause birth defects in animal studies, and it is unknown if it is safe to take while pregnant.

Breastfeeding

Concerta has been known to cause birth defects in animal studies, and it is unknown if it is safe to take while breastfeeding.

Priapism

Priapism is a painful and prolonged erection, and it has been reported in adult and adolescent patients taking methylphenidate, the active ingredient in Concerta. If not treated immediately, there is a potential for lasting damage. It is important to seek medical help immediately if this occurs.

Visual Disturbances

Concerta can cause visual disturbances and blurred vision. Those with a history of glaucoma should not take Concerta.

Long-term Suppression of Growth in Children

When taken long-term, Concerta can slow growth without growth rebound after stopping the medication. Your provider will carefully monitor your child’s growth patterns throughout treatment.

Allergic Reactions

While rare, an allergic reaction to Concerta may occur. This kind of reaction may become life-threatening.

Severe allergic reactions to Concerta can include:

  • Breathing problems
  • Swelling
  • Rash/hives

If you experience wheezing, difficulty breathing, or swelling in the throat, seek immediate medical help.

Drug Interactions

Taking certain medications, herbs, or supplements alongside Concerta can change how Concerta works in your body or increase the risk for serious side effects. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.

Substances you should avoid using while taking Concerta include:

  • Other stimulant medications
  • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
  • Anticonvulsant medications
  • Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
  • Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs)
  • Vasopressor drugs, which increase blood pressure by constricting blood vessels
  • Anti-blood clotting medications
  • Alcohol

This is not a comprehensive list of medications that interact with Concerta. Be sure to talk with your doctor or pharmacist about any prescription or over the counter medications you take, as well as supplements, herbs, and teas.

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Important Things to Know About Taking Concerta

Before you begin taking Concerta, it’s important to understand how it may affect you. Side effects often emerge during the first few weeks of treatment. However, they can show up any time after you’ve started taking the medication.

Your prescriber will discuss how to take Concerta, your dosage, precautions and warnings, and side effects that may occur. They will also discuss what to do if side effects don’t go away on their own and which ones may require medical care.

How Long Does It Take for Concerta to Work?

Concerta starts working within one hour of taking the dose. For most people, the effects can last up to 12 hours.1 Everyone responds to medication differently, so it may take a little longer for some to notice Concerta starting to work.

Can Concerta Make You Feel Worse at First?

Yes, some people may feel side effects when starting a new Concerta prescription. These may include trouble sleeping, dry mouth, and decreased appetite.1 Concerta also has a risk of rare but serious side effects, including circulation problems in fingers and toes causing numbness, discoloration, or a cold feeling. Chest pain, shortness of breath, and allergic reactions are also possible. If you experience any of these or other serious side effects, get medical help right away.

What Happens If I Miss a Dose?

If you miss a dose of Concerta, do not take extra “catch-up” doses. Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it, unless it’s close to the time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.1

Do not abruptly stop Concerta or make a change to your dosage without first discussing it with your provider.

What Are the Side Effects of Concerta in Children Vs. Adults?

The most notable side effects of Concerta are experienced by adults and children alike. However some are more prevalent in children, such as abdominal pain. Also, children and adolescents (ages 6-17) using Concerta for extended periods are at risk for slowed growth. This is due to decreased appetite, a common side effect of Concerta.

This serious effect is mostly observed in children since adults are no longer growing. Concerta can still cause weight loss in adults, but the risk of malnutrition is greater in children.1

Who Experiences Side Effects More?

Some taking Concerta are more likely to experience side effects than others. While side effects may develop for anyone, those with certain risks should be cautious with Concerta, possibly needing to avoid it altogether.

When considering Concerta as a treatment, always tell your provider about health history and any current conditions for yourself or your child. This information will help them choose the medication that best suits your needs.

Those with a history of certain health concerns have a higher risk of side effects, such as:

  • Substance misuse or dependence
  • Heart problems, including high blood pressure and abnormal heart rhythms
  • Tics or Tourette syndrome
  • Psychosis, bipolar disorder, mania, or depression
  • Suicidal thoughts or behaviors
  • Pregnancy or breastfeeding
  • Prior allergic reactions to Concerta or its components

Concerta can interact with other medications in harmful ways. These interactions may become serious reactions, requiring medical care. Both medications may also be less effective when taken together.

Those taking certain medications or treatments also have a higher risk of side effects, such as:

  • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam, Zelapar), and tranylcypromine (Parnate)
  • Antidepressant medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs)
  • Other stimulant medications
  • Anticonvulsant medications
  • Vasopressor drugs, which increase blood pressure by constricting blood vessels
  • Anti-blood clotting medications
  • Herbs, herbal remedies, and over-the-counter treatments

This is not a complete list of possible interactions with Concerta. Consult with your healthcare provider before combining Concerta with any over-the-counter medications, prescription medications, or herbal supplements to ensure safety and effectiveness.

How to Cope With Common Concerta Side Effects

Some side effects of Concerta, such as anxiety, insomnia, and nausea, can be managed through lifestyle changes or timing of your dose. Talk to your medical provider if you have difficulty managing these symptoms on your own or if they become severe.

Anxiety

For some, Concerta may cause feelings of nervousness and worry. If you already have anxiety, Concerta may intensify your symptoms, such as sweating, shaking, chest pain, and shortness of breath.2

You can manage anxiety caused by Concerta with lifestyle changes. Meditation can help you relax and decrease the amount of stress you feel. Regular exercise can improve your stress levels and prevent health problems related to additional stress. Decreasing the amount of caffeine you consume can reduce your risk for anxiety since it is also a stimulant. Talk to your doctor if you are not able to manage these symptoms, as therapy and changes in medications can also help.2

Insomnia

Insomnia is a common side effect of Concerta due to its stimulating effects on the central nervous system. Taking your Concerta dose later in the day can interfere with sleep, causing insomnia, daytime drowsiness, and problems with memory and learning.3 To reduce the risk of these issues, take your dose earlier in the day.

Lifestyle changes can also help, such as limiting your screen time a couple of hours before bed, blocking out light, avoiding laying in bed when it’s not bedtime, and avoiding caffeine and nicotine.3

Dry Mouth

Dry mouth, caused by reduced saliva production, is another potential side effect of Concerta. Take frequent sips of water throughout the day. Also try sugar-free lozenges or gum to promote saliva production. Avoiding caffeine and alcohol can also help alleviate dry mouth symptoms.4

Reduced Appetite

Concerta can cause decreased appetite, which may lead to unintended weight loss for some. To prevent weight loss, try eating more when your appetite is strongest. This may be in the morning before the medication begins to work or in the evening as it wears off. You can also manage weight loss with frequent snacking.5

Nausea

Nausea is one of the most commonly reported side effects of Concerta. To lessen this, follow the meal timing instructions for your medication. Also, drink plenty of water and eat smaller, more frequent meals. Talk with your provider first if you think soothing teas with peppermint or other herbal remedies may help. Over-the-counter treatments and supplements, including tea, may interact with Concerta.

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More Ways to Manage Concerta Side Effects

Here are more ways to cope with and reduce the impact of Concerta side effects.

Practice Good Sleep Habits

Concerta can disrupt sleep if you take it too late in the day. Reduce the risk of sleep problems by taking it earlier in the day and following your provider’s instructions.

Focus on good sleep habits while adjusting to your new medication. Try waking up and going to bed at the same time every day, and make sure your sleep environment is as comfortable as possible. If you struggle with sleep, be cautious when doing activities that require you to be alert, such as driving. Or avoid them until you understand how Concerta affects your sleep patterns.

Healthy Lifestyle Activities

Focus on eating well, getting enough sleep, and staying physically active to maintain well-being while starting Concerta. These activities are beneficial for overall wellness, and can provide essential support for your body as it adjusts to the medication.

Follow Your Daily Routine

As much as possible, stick with your normal daily routine as you start your new Concerta prescription. Keeping a predictable schedule can reduce stress on your body and mind as you get used to the medication.

Some side effects may show up in the first few days of taking it. Or, it may not feel like your medication is working right away. Be sure you’re following your provider’s instructions for taking your medication and take it at the same time each day.

Consider Therapy

With psychotherapy, you can develop strategies to manage the impact of side effects. For in-person therapy, your primary care provider or insurance company can provide referrals in your local area. Or, family members and friends may recommend someone to you.

For therapy options outside of your local area, an online therapist directory is a great starting point. Many online psychiatry platforms, such as Talkiatry and Brightside Health, also offer therapy services.

Should I Stop Taking Concerta If I Start Feeling Side Effects?

Do not stop taking Concerta if you start feeling side effects. Stopping Concerta abruptly can lead to withdrawal symptoms or your symptoms returning and possibly worsening. If you need to stop taking Concerta or change your dosage, your provider will tell you how to safely reduce your dose.1

When Should I Call My Doctor About Concerta Side Effects?

People often consider stopping a medication if side effects emerge. While some side effects can be managed and may fade on their own, some will persist for as long as a person takes the medication. Even when taken correctly, side effects can still occur.

Talk with your provider If side effects continue beyond the first few weeks of treatment or you can’t tolerate them anymore. They will discuss your options and next steps with you.

While serious side effects from Concerta are rare, they can occur for some people. Some of these side effects may become life-threatening and require immediate medical care.

When Should I Seek an Alternative to Concerta Due to Side Effects?

After the first few weeks, many of Concerta’s initial side effects go away on their own. If your side effects continue and you’re considering a change in your medication, talk with your provider. Many Concerta alternatives are available and your provider can help you determine which one may be a good fit. Stimulant and non-stimulant medications can help reduce ADHD symptoms, though it’s important to understand the potential risks and benefits of each option.

Other stimulants, such as Adderall, Ritalin, and Vyvanse, are often the primary medications used to treat ADHD. While they can be effective, there are risks to consider with each of these medications.

If stimulant medications aren’t a good fit, many non-stimulant alternatives are available. Strattera and Qelbree are two FDA-approved non-stimulants for treating ADHD. These medications are thought to work by increasing levels of the norepinephrine in the brain, which may improve attention and focus for some.

Some antidepressants have shown to be effective ADHD treatments. Wellbutrin, Effexor XR, imipramine, and desipramine are the most widely studied antidepressants for treating ADHD symptoms.They may be helpful for those who need to avoid or can’t tolerate stimulant medications.

Concerta

Drug class: Stimulant

Used for
  • FDA-approved for ADHD
  • Common off-label uses: Apathy in Alzheimer’s disease, depression

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Vyvanse

Drug class: Stimulant

Used for
  • FDA-approved for ADHD, binge eating disorder
  • Common off-label uses: Depression, daytime sleepiness weight loss

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Ritalin

Drug class: Stimulant

Used for
  • FDA-approved for ADHD, narcolepsy
  • Common off-label uses: Depression, weight loss, hypersomnia

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Adderall

Drug class: Stimulant

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  • FDA-approved for ADHD, narcolepsy
  • Common off-label uses: Depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder

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Strattera

Drug class: Selective Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitor

Used for
  • FDA-approved for ADHD
  • Common off-label uses: Depression, treatment-resistant depression

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Atomoxetine

Drug class: SNRI

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  • Common off-label uses: Depression, treatment-resistant depression

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Qelbree

Drug class: Selective Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitor

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  • Common off-label uses: None

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Guanfacine

Drug class: Alpha 2A-adrenergic Receptor Agonist

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  • Common off-label uses: PTSD, anxiety, tic disorders

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Clonidine

Drug class: Antihypertensive

Used for
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  • Common off-label uses: Anxiety

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Click here for the previous slide. Click here for the next slide.

How to Get a Prescription for Concerta or Alternative Medications

To get a prescription for Concerta or an alternative in person, your first step is getting an evaluation of your symptoms. Your primary care provider, which may be a physician, PA, or nurse practitioner, can help you start this process. They’ll also determine if a referral to a specialist may be needed. Based on their assessment, they’ll decide if Concerta or another medication should be part of your treatment plan.

Getting an online prescription for a Concerta or an alternative begins in a similar way, with an evaluation from a provider at an online platform. Because of special rules for controlled substances such as stimulants, your evaluation will need to be done with a platform that prescribes these types of medications. After a careful review, we have determined that Circle Medical is a good place for such an evaluation. This online platform can prescribe controlled substances such as Concerta, offering both assessments and prescription management.

Non-stimulant medications are also effective for treating ADHD symptoms and may be considered as alternatives to Concerta. These include medications like Strattera, Qelbree, and also some antidepressants. We have carefully reviewed online psychiatry platforms such as Talkiatry and Circle Medical, which can prescribe non-stimulant medications for ADHD.

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Questions to Ask Your Provider

Your doctor, psychiatrist, or therapist can discuss possible Concerta side effects with you, especially those that may occur when starting your treatment. Ask them whether these side effects will go away on their own. Also discuss what to do if they persist or become difficult to manage.

Also, many online psychiatry services make accessing mental health care for ADHD convenient. You get a mental health evaluation, diagnosis, and personalized treatment plan. Some platforms also allow you to change providers, if needed.

Questions to ask your care team about Concerta side effects may include:

  • What does it mean that Concerta is a controlled substance?
  • Can I use Concerta along with therapy to treat ADHD symptoms?
  • How is Concerta different from other stimulants?
  • How long will it take for me to adjust to taking Concerta?
  • Am I at risk for more severe side effects if I am already taking medication for anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions?
  • Will a previous history of addiction make me more susceptible to dependency?
  • What is the best dosage to ensure fewer side effects?
  • Will my dose change over time?
  • Are there drugs I am taking that could have negative interactions?
  • When should I reach out to you if I am experiencing side effects?
  • Is there anything I should tell my therapist about this new medication?
  • What are the common side effects associated with Concerta, and how long do they typically last?
  • Are there any potentially serious or rare side effects of Concerta that I should be aware of?
  • How likely am I to experience side effects based on my specific medical history and current medications?
  • Are there any specific side effects that might require immediate medical attention or discontinuation of the medication?
  • Can the side effects of Concerta interfere with my daily activities, such as work, school, or driving?
  • Are there any strategies or lifestyle adjustments that can help minimize or manage the side effects of Concerta?
  • Is it possible for the side effects of Concerta to diminish or resolve over time as my body adjusts to the medication?
  • Are there any long-term or permanent side effects associated with Concerta that I should be aware of?
  • Are there any specific side effects that are more common in certain age groups or populations?
  • Can Concerta interact with any other medications or substances I am currently taking, potentially increasing the risk of side effects?

Prescriber’s Tips

Your provider will discuss important information about your Concerta prescription with you. They will discuss how to take your medication, what to avoid when taking it, and the best way to store it. They’ll also explain how to manage side effects and when to seek medical care for them. Follow these tips for safe and effective use of Concerta.

  • Take your medication as prescribed. Do not change your dose or stop taking it unless your prescriber tells you to. Keeping a consistent dosing schedule reduces the chance of unwanted side effects.1
  • Take your medication at the same time each day. Doing so can help you remember to take it and make your treatment as effective as possible. Your healthcare provider can determine the best time to take your medication based on how you respond to it.
  • Tell your prescriber right away if you or your child have any worsening mental health symptoms. While these rarely occur, Concerta may worsen mental health or trigger additional symptoms. These potential risks include suicidal thoughts and behaviors, symptoms of mania, and psychosis.
  • Ask your doctor whether it is safe to drink alcohol while taking Concerta.
  • Tell your prescriber about all medications and supplements you take, including over-the-counter treatments. Many over-the-counter medications and supplements can interact with prescription medications.
Zachary Reale, PharmD Zachary Reale, PharmD

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is Concerta & What Is It Used to Treat?

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Concerta, with the active ingredient, methylphenidate, is a stimulant medication FDA-approved to treat ADHD in adults and children over age 6, adolescents, and adults up to age 65.1

How Does Concerta Work?

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Concerta is thought to work by affecting levels of dopamine and norepinephrine. These brain chemicals act as stimulants to produce feelings of pleasure, motivation, and reward.1 The result is improved attention span and decreased distractibility. Concerta can also help with impulsivity, helping you think through your decisions before acting. It also helps reduce overactive energy by helping you focus on complex tasks. It can also help with tolerance to delayed gratification.

How Does Concerta Make You Feel During the First Week?

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Some people starting Concerta may experience side effects during the first few weeks. These can include loss of appetite, insomnia, dizziness, and anxiety.1 Concerta may also cause rare but serious side effects for some, including circulation problems in fingers and toes and increased blood pressure. Serious side effects like these require medical attention right away. If you experience side effects that persist or get worse, contact your provider as soon as possible.

What is Priapism, & What Should I Do if it Occurs?

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Priapism is a painful and prolonged erection. This rare but serious side effect can occur in both adults and adolescents taking Concerta. If not treated immediately, priapism may cause lasting damage.1

Do Concerta Side Effects Vary Based on the Dosage?

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Taking a higher dose of Concerta means a higher risk of side effects. These side effects may also become more severe with higher doses. This is why it is important to slowly increase your dose over time according to your doctor’s directions. If you are switching from immediate-release methylphenidate to Concerta, your doctor will take into account your current dose to avoid any dose-related side effects.1

Can Stopping Concerta Cause Withdrawal Symptoms?

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Concerta, along with other stimulants, is a medication that can cause dependence. It is important to be aware that withdrawal side effects can happen if Concerta is stopped abruptly. These can include agitation, anxiety, sweating, fevers, and rebound depression. It is important to identify these symptoms and seek medical help right away.1

How Long Do Concerta Side Effects Last?

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Most common side effects are temporary and last only a few weeks when first starting the medication. This is the time when your body is adjusting to the medication. Side effects can reappear if you change your dose, so be aware. There are, however, some side effects that increase in likelihood the longer you take Concerta.1

What Are the Long-term Side Effects of Concerta?

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Prolonged use of Concerta may affect growth in children, meaning that regular monitoring of height and weight is important during treatment. Long-term use can also lead to tolerance, which means that higher doses may be needed to reach the same effectiveness.

How Do the Side Effects of Concerta and Adderall Compare?

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Because Concerta and Adderall are both stimulant medications, they affect the body in similar ways. They share many common side effects as well, including reduced appetite and sleep problems. Many of these side effects can be managed with the timing or adjustment of the dose.1, 6, 7

Can Concerta Affect My Sleep?

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Yes, it can. Insomnia is a common side effect of Concerta. To reduce the chance of sleep problems, take Concerta earlier in the day.

Should I Stop Taking Concerta If I Experience Side Effects?

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No, you should not stop taking Concerta unless your provider tells you to do so. Stopping Concerta abruptly may cause withdrawal symptoms, which can include excessive fatigue or even symptoms of depression. Instead, tell your provider about your side effects so you can be on the same page about your treatment experience. If it’s determined that you need to stop taking Concerta, they will instruct you on how to stop taking it safely.

Sources Update History

ChoosingTherapy.com strives to provide our readers with mental health content that is accurate and actionable. We have high standards for what can be cited within our articles. Acceptable sources include government agencies, universities and colleges, scholarly journals, industry and professional associations, and other high-integrity sources of mental health journalism. Learn more by reviewing our full editorial policy.

  • Concerta- methylphenidate hydrochloride tablet, extended release. (October 3, 2024). DailyMed.nlm.nih.gov. Retrieved from https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm

  • Chand SP, Marwaha R. Anxiety. [Updated 2023 Apr 24]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470361/

  • NIN.gov. (2022) Living With Insomnia. Retrieved from https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/insomnia/living-with

  • Talha, B., & Swarnkar, S. A. (2020). Xerostomia. PubMed; StatPearls Publishing. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK545287/

  • Tefft, A. (2022). ADHD medications and your child’s appetite. Ohioline.osu.edu. Retrieved from https://ohioline.osu.edu/factsheet/fcs-1002

  • Adderall- dextroamphetamine saccharate, amphetamine aspartate, dextroamphetamine sulfate, and amphetamine sulfate tablet. (May 29, 2024). DailyMed.nlm.nih.gov. Retrieved from https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm

  • Adderall XR- dextroamphetamine sulfate, dextroamphetamine saccharate, amphetamine sulfate and amphetamine aspartate capsule, extended release. (March 13, 2025). DailyMed.nlm.nih.gov. Retrieved from https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm

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We regularly update the articles on ChoosingTherapy.com to ensure we continue to reflect scientific consensus on the topics we cover, to incorporate new research into our articles, and to better answer our audience’s questions. When our content undergoes a significant revision, we summarize the changes that were made and the date on which they occurred. We also record the authors and medical reviewers who contributed to previous versions of the article. Read more about our editorial policies here.

April 7, 2025
Author: No Change
Reviewer: No Change
Primary updates: Added “Key Takeaways” feature. Edited for clarity. Condensed “What is Concerta?” and moved to FAQs. Removed “Mild Side Effects of Concerta” section. Revised and moved “What Are the Side Effects of Concerta in Children Vs. Adults?”. Revised and moved content from “Allergic Reactions”, “Can Concerta be Taken With Other Medications?”, and “Other Warnings & Precautions for Taking Concerta” sections with new “What Are the Warnings & Risks of Concerta?” feature. Revised and expanded “Who Experiences the Most Side Effects on Concerta?” and retitled to “Who Experiences Side Effects More?” Added new section “Important Things to Know About Taking Concerta”. Revised and moved FAQ section to the end. Revised and retitled “How to Manage Side Effects” to “How to Cope With Common Concerta Side Effects”. Revised and retitled “Concerta Withdrawal Side Effects” to “Should I Stop Taking Concerta If I Start Feeling Side Effects?”. Added “More Ways to Manage Concerta Side Effects”, “When Should I Seek an Alternative to Concerta Due to Side Effects?”, “How to Get a Prescription for Concerta or Alternative Medications” and all included subsections. Retitled “Questions to Ask Your Healthcare Provider About Concerta Side Effects” to “Questions to Ask Your Provider”. Replaced “Final Thoughts” with “Prescriber’s Tips” feature. Removed “For Further Reading”
Original publish date: August 24, 2023
Author: Zachary Reale, PharmD
Medical Reviewer: Heidi Moawad, MD
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