I have been on Concerta (2) 18mg doses 2 hours apart in the morning for about 4 months. I decided to go off the med for a day, and the next day took my dose. I experienced tightness in my chest, kind of like heart burn, but antacids don't seem to help. The indications on the Concerta manufacturer info says this is a mild side effect, but on Focalin it says go immediately to the emergency room.

I have an appointment with my doctor tomorrow to discuss (coincidentally my appointment is to talk about switching to Focalin)? Anyone else experience effects like this?

The main reason I ask is my appointment tomorrow is to talk with the doc about Focalin.

How was your EKG that the Doctor gave you when you started stimulants? (Like some other meds, they can create rhythm problems.)

My own ADHD Doctor gave me an EKG when i started stimulants. I get one about every two years, now.

Chest pain is a big red flag. So is being 'short of breath' or getting an intense headache. Don't ignore it, eh?

I had an EKG and treadmill stress test 3 weeks before starting the Concerta. It was a 40th b-day present as part of an overall physical prior to running a marathon (which I haven't done yet). They were all clean.

Today, I have had no problems. My doctor appointment today was postponed until tomorrow. I will talk with him and see if he thinks I should get some tests.

How was your EKG that the Doctor gave you when you started stimulants? (Like some other meds, they can create rhythm problems.)

My own ADHD Doctor gave me an EKG when i started stimulants. I get one about every two years, now.

Chest pain is a big red flag. So is being 'short of breath' or getting an intense headache. Don't ignore it, eh?
Went to the doctor, EKG at my insistance was fine, no issues. Problem was my blood pressure. It was up a bunch. Normally my bp is great even on the Concerta. Off the med for a while to figure out the problem. Doc thinks it might be anxiety. After many months on Concerta with terrific results, it may have turned on me.