Jornay PM: A Comprehensive Guide for Patients and Families
- Kevin Keane
- Aug 13, 2024
- 4 min read
What is Jornay PM? Jornay PM is a unique stimulant medication used to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in children and adolescents. Unlike most other ADHD medications, which are taken in the morning, Jornay PM is designed to be taken in the evening. This innovative approach allows the medication to start working by the time you wake up, providing symptom control when you need it most—first thing in the morning.
How Does Jornay PM Work? Jornay PM uses a special delivery system that combines delayed-release and extended-release technologies:
• Delayed-Release: After taking Jornay PM in the evening, the medication remains inactive for several hours. This delay allows the medication to start working early the next day, aligning with your morning routine.
• Extended-Release: Once active, the medication is released steadily throughout the day, providing consistent symptom control without the need for additional doses.
Key Benefits of Jornay PM
• Morning Symptom Control: Many people with ADHD struggle the most in the morning. Jornay PM is designed to be effective when you wake up, helping to manage symptoms like hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity right from the start of the day.
• Simplified Medication Routine: Because Jornay PM is taken in the evening, there’s no need to rush in the morning to take your medication. This can be especially helpful for families with busy morning routines.
• Consistent Symptom Management: The extended-release mechanism ensures that symptoms are managed throughout the day, reducing the peaks and troughs that can occur with some other medications.
• Lower Risk of Early-Day Side Effects: By delaying the release of the medication, Jornay PM may have a lower risk of side effects that some other morning-dosed stimulants can cause, such as irritability or anxiety.
Who Can Use Jornay PM? Jornay PM is approved for use in children and adolescents aged 6 and older. As with any medication, it’s important to discuss with your healthcare provider whether Jornay PM is the right choice for you or your child.
How to Take Jornay PM
• Dosage: Jornay PM is typically taken once daily in the evening. Your healthcare provider will prescribe the appropriate dose based on your specific needs.
• Timing: Take Jornay PM between 6:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. The exact timing may vary based on your routine and the advice of your healthcare provider.
• Consistency: For best results, take Jornay PM at the same time each evening.
• Swallowing: The capsule should be swallowed whole with water. Do not crush, chew, or open the capsule, as this could interfere with the delayed-release and extended-release mechanisms.
Potential Side Effects As with any medication, Jornay PM may cause side effects. Common side effects include:
• Decreased appetite
• Trouble sleeping (insomnia)
• Stomach pain
• Irritability
• Headache
Most side effects are mild and tend to diminish over time as your body adjusts to the medication. If you experience any side effects that are severe or persist, contact your healthcare provider.
Important Considerations
• Medication Interactions: Jornay PM may interact with other medications. Be sure to inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and vitamins you or your child are taking.
• Monitoring: Regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider are important to monitor the effectiveness of the medication and make any necessary adjustments.
• Storage: Store Jornay PM at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep the medication out of reach of children.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can Jornay PM affect my sleep? A: While Jornay PM is designed to minimize sleep disturbances by delaying the release of the active medication, some people may still experience trouble sleeping. If you notice any sleep issues, talk to your healthcare provider about adjusting the timing of the dose or other strategies to improve sleep.
Q: What should I do if I miss a dose? A: If you miss a dose of Jornay PM, do not take it the next morning. Instead, skip the missed dose and resume your regular evening dosing schedule. Taking Jornay PM in the morning can lead to difficulty falling asleep that night.
Q: How long does it take for Jornay PM to start working? A: Jornay PM is designed to start working the next morning after you take it. The delayed-release mechanism allows the medication to become active as you wake up, providing symptom control throughout the day.
Q: Can Jornay PM be taken with other ADHD medications? A: Jornay PM is usually taken alone, but your healthcare provider will determine the best treatment plan based on your specific needs. Always consult your healthcare provider before adding or changing medications.
Conclusion Jornay PM offers a unique and convenient option for managing ADHD, particularly for those who need effective symptom control in the morning. By taking Jornay PM in the evening, you can wake up with the medication already active, simplifying your routine and providing consistent support throughout the day. If you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for more information.
Written by:
Joeseph Gagnon Jr.