What is Jornay PM?
Jornay PM is an evening-dosed, delayed-release methylphenidate formulation designed to provide symptom control upon awakening in the morning for patients 6 years and older with ADHD. 1
Mechanism and Unique Characteristics
- Jornay PM is a methylphenidate formulation taken in the evening (typically at bedtime) that provides symptom control starting when the patient wakes up in the morning 1
- This delayed-release mechanism offers an alternative approach for early morning symptom control, addressing the common challenge of ADHD symptoms being present immediately upon awakening 1
- Like other methylphenidate products, it works by inhibiting neuronal neurotransmitter transporters involved in dopamine and norepinephrine reuptake at the synapse, leading to increased concentrations of these neurotransmitters and enhanced alertness 2
FDA-Approved Indication
- Methylphenidate products, including Jornay PM, are FDA-approved for the treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in adults and pediatric patients 6 years of age and older 3
- The medication is also FDA-approved for narcolepsy, though this is not the primary indication 3
Clinical Context and Guidelines
- The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends FDA-approved medications for ADHD, including methylphenidate formulations, as first-line pharmacological treatment for elementary and middle school-aged children (6-12 years) and adolescents, preferably combined with behavioral interventions 4
- Methylphenidate has the strongest evidence base among ADHD medications, with over 70% of school-aged children responding when a full range of doses is systematically trialed 5
- The evening-dosed formulation addresses a specific clinical need: ensuring medication coverage from the moment of awakening, which is particularly important for morning routines, getting ready for school, and early academic performance 1
Important Safety Considerations
- Methylphenidate products carry a high risk for abuse, misuse, and potential addiction, and can lead to overdose and death when misused 3
- The medication is a federally controlled substance (Schedule CII) and must be stored securely and never shared with others 3
- Sudden death has occurred in patients with heart defects or serious heart disease; cardiovascular screening is mandatory before initiating treatment 3
- Common adverse effects include decreased appetite, insomnia, increased blood pressure and heart rate, and potential psychiatric symptoms including new or worsening behavioral problems, psychosis, or mania 3
Monitoring Requirements
- Healthcare providers must check patients for risk of abuse, misuse, and addiction before starting treatment and monitor throughout therapy 3
- Regular monitoring of blood pressure, heart rate, height, and weight is essential during treatment 5, 6
- Patients should be screened for personal and family cardiac history before initiation 3