Jornay PM Side Effects: What You Need to Know

Jornay PM (methylphenidate) is an ADHD medication with a unique twist — you take it in the evening, and it starts working by the next morning. Like all stimulant medications, it comes with potential side effects. Most are mild and improve over time, but some require immediate medical attention.

This guide covers the most common side effects, what's considered serious, and how to know when it's time to call your doctor.

Common Side Effects of Jornay PM

Most people who take Jornay PM experience at least one or two side effects, especially in the first few weeks. These are the ones reported most often in clinical trials:

• Insomnia — This is one of the most common side effects. Even though you take Jornay PM in the evening, the medication is designed to delay its release until morning. However, some people still have trouble falling or staying asleep.
• Decreased appetite — Stimulants are well known for suppressing appetite. This may be more noticeable during the day when the medication is most active.
• Headache — Usually mild and tends to improve as your body adjusts.
• Nausea and stomach pain — Some people experience abdominal discomfort, especially if they take the medication on an empty stomach.
• Weight loss — Related to decreased appetite. This is particularly important to monitor in children.
• Irritability and mood swings — Some people feel more on edge, especially as the medication wears off.
• Dizziness — Usually mild and temporary.
• Increased heart rate and blood pressure — Stimulants can raise both. Your doctor should monitor these regularly.

Most of these side effects are dose-related — meaning they may get worse at higher doses and better at lower ones. If side effects are bothering you, talk to your doctor before making any changes.

Side Effects That Are Unique to Jornay PM's Evening Dosing

Because Jornay PM is taken at night (between 6:30 PM and 9:30 PM), some side effects may show up differently compared to morning-dosed stimulants:

• Evening restlessness — Some patients feel slightly restless or have difficulty winding down after taking the capsule, even though the medication hasn't fully released yet.
• Sleep disruption — While the delayed-release technology is designed to prevent nighttime stimulation, some patients are more sensitive and may notice lighter sleep or more awakenings.
• Morning-specific effects — Because Jornay PM reaches peak levels in the morning, appetite suppression and increased heart rate may be strongest during breakfast time and the early part of the day.

If sleep issues are significant, talk to your doctor. Adjusting the timing of your evening dose (within the recommended 6:30–9:30 PM window) may help. To learn more about how Jornay PM's delayed-release mechanism works, see our detailed guide.

Serious Side Effects: When to Call Your Doctor

While rare, some side effects of Jornay PM are serious and require prompt medical attention. Call your doctor right away or go to the emergency room if you experience:

Heart-Related Symptoms

• Chest pain or tightness
• Shortness of breath
• Fainting or feeling like you might pass out
• Fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat that doesn't go away

Stimulant medications can increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, and sudden death, particularly in people with pre-existing heart conditions. Your doctor should check your heart health before starting Jornay PM and monitor it throughout treatment.

Psychiatric Symptoms

• New or worsening anxiety, agitation, or panic attacks
• Hearing voices or seeing things that aren't there (hallucinations)
• Manic behavior (feeling unusually energized, not needing sleep, racing thoughts)
• Paranoia or unusual suspiciousness
• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide

These are uncommon but important to watch for, especially when starting the medication or increasing the dose.

Other Serious Side Effects

• Priapism — A prolonged, painful erection lasting more than 4 hours. This is a medical emergency. Seek immediate treatment.
• Raynaud's phenomenon — Fingers or toes turning white or blue and feeling cold or numb. Tell your doctor if this happens.
• Seizures — If you have a seizure, stop taking the medication and seek emergency care.
• Severe allergic reaction — Hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, or difficulty breathing. Call 911 immediately.

Side Effects in Children vs. Adults

Jornay PM is approved for patients aged 6 and older. Children may experience side effects differently:

• Growth suppression — Long-term stimulant use can slow growth in children. Your doctor should monitor height and weight regularly. This is listed as one of the more important things to know about Jornay PM for parents.
• Emotional sensitivity — Children may be more prone to mood changes, crying spells, or irritability.
• Appetite and eating — Kids may skip meals or eat very little during the day. Offering a good breakfast before the medication kicks in and a larger dinner may help.

Jornay PM's Boxed Warning

Like all stimulant medications, Jornay PM carries a boxed warning (the most serious FDA warning) about the potential for abuse and addiction. Methylphenidate is a Schedule II controlled substance with a high potential for misuse.

This doesn't mean Jornay PM is dangerous when taken as prescribed. It means:

• Take only the dose your doctor prescribes
• Don't share your medication with anyone
• Store it securely — stimulant medications are commonly misused
• Tell your doctor if you have a history of substance use disorder

What to Do If You Experience Side Effects

Here's a quick decision guide:

• Mild side effects (headache, slight appetite decrease, mild nausea) → Give it 1-2 weeks. These often improve as your body adjusts. Mention them at your next appointment.
• Bothersome side effects (significant insomnia, noticeable weight loss, persistent irritability) → Call your doctor's office. They may adjust your dose or the timing of your evening dose.
• Serious side effects (chest pain, hallucinations, seizures, priapism, severe allergic reaction) → Seek emergency medical care immediately.

Never stop taking Jornay PM suddenly without talking to your doctor first. They can help you taper safely if needed.

Managing Common Side Effects

Some practical tips that may help:

• For insomnia: Take Jornay PM earlier in the evening window (closer to 6:30 PM). Practice good sleep hygiene — dark room, no screens before bed, consistent sleep schedule.
• For decreased appetite: Eat a solid breakfast early, before the medication reaches peak levels. Have a larger dinner in the evening. Keep healthy snacks available.
• For headaches: Stay hydrated. Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen can help (check with your doctor first).
• For stomach issues: Try taking the capsule with a small snack. If you're opening the capsule and sprinkling on applesauce, make sure you swallow the beads without chewing them.

How Jornay PM Side Effects Compare to Other ADHD Medications

Jornay PM's side effects are generally similar to other methylphenidate medications like Concerta or Ritalin. The main difference is the timing — because Jornay PM is taken at night, sleep-related side effects may be more of a concern for some people.

If you're struggling with Jornay PM side effects and considering other options, our guide on alternatives to Jornay PM covers other ADHD medications you can discuss with your doctor.

Final Thoughts

Most Jornay PM side effects are mild and manageable. The most common ones — insomnia, decreased appetite, and headache — often improve within the first few weeks of treatment. Serious side effects are rare but important to know about.

The most important thing you can do is communicate with your doctor. Keep them updated on how you're feeling, report any new symptoms, and don't adjust your dose on your own. Together, you can find the right balance between managing your ADHD symptoms and minimizing side effects.

If you're having trouble finding Jornay PM at your pharmacy, MedFinder can help you locate it in stock near you.