Methylphenidate Titration and Side Effects
I have recently started medication on methylphenidate and I was initially prescribed 18mg for a week before moving up to 27mg Concerta. I started taking my increased dosage last week and I saw improvements in my symptoms and a lack of a really bad afternoon crash for the first 5 days since I have taken it, however for the last couple of days whenever I took my medication (I always take it after having a protein shake or protein oats after breakfast), I started experiencing really weird side effects from day 6 onwards around an hour after I had taken my medication until it wears off in the evening at around 8-9pm and it has been like this for the last 4 days. I'm not sure how how to describe it exactly but it feels like my brain isn't fully screwed into my head and that I'm experiencing the visual sensations of being high without feeling overstimulated. It feels like I can't focus on the words on my screen and what's in front of me, which has impacted my ability to focus as I am processing my thoughts and what I'm seeing a lot more slowly.
As I had an exam today I decided not to take my medication because I was worried about how these side effects could affect my performance. I have a titration follow up appointment on the 19th, so I'm not sure whether I will need a dose adjustment or switching medication to Elvanse.
If anyone has any input on this I would really appreciate it!