Ritalin LA Information

• Ritalin LA

Ritalin LA is a prescription medicine that is used to treat ADHD in children. This page on the eMedTV Web site describes how the medication works and further explores its effects, possible side effects, and general dosing information.

• Ritalin LA Side Effects

Common Ritalin LA side effects include insomnia, headache, and loss of appetite. This eMedTV segment lists other common side effects seen with the drug and also describes rare problems and side effects that may require medical attention.

• Ritalin LA Uses

Ritalin LA is used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children. This eMedTV article discusses Ritalin LA uses in more detail, including a list of possible off-label uses, such as adult ADHD treatment and narcolepsy treatment.

• Ritalin LA Dosage

The recommended Ritalin LA dosage for children starting ADHD treatment is 20 mg a day. This eMedTV resource also lists dosing guidelines for people who were previously taking methylphenidate products and offers tips for taking the drug.

• Ritalin LA Drug Interactions

Medicines that may cause Ritalin LA drug interactions include antacids, pressors, and clonidine. This eMedTV page lists other drugs that can lead to interactions and explains the potentially serious problems that may occur when these drugs are mixed.

• Ritalin LA Warnings and Precautions

This eMedTV Web page offers Ritalin LA warnings and precautions to be aware of, including a list of potential side effects and information on who should not take the drug. For example, Ritalin LA can cause blurred vision or increased heart rate.

• Ritalin LA and Weight Loss

Weight loss is a common side effect of Ritalin LA. This eMedTV page further discusses Ritalin LA and weight loss, including information on how the drug can be used in an off-label fashion to lose weight and what to do if unwanted weight loss occurs.

• Ritalin LA and Hair Loss

Hair loss has not been reported with Ritalin LA, but it is a side effect of other methylphenidate products. This eMedTV segment discusses Ritalin LA and hair loss in more detail, and offers recommendations for helping with hair loss.

• Ritalin LA and Depression

Depression is a possible side effect of Ritalin LA, but its prevalence is unknown. This page of the eMedTV archives further discusses Ritalin LA and depression, and explains how stimulants are sometimes used "off-label" to treat associated symptoms.

• Ritalin LA for Adults and Teens

Ritalin LA is licensed to treat ADHD in children but isn't approved for use in adults and teens. This eMedTV page describes studies conducted on Ritalin LA for adults and teens, and explains how the drug may be used "off label" to treat adult ADHD.

• Ritalin LA and Pregnancy

Due to its possible effects on a developing fetus, Ritalin LA may not be safe to use during pregnancy. This eMedTV page describes animal studies conducted on Ritalin LA and pregnancy, and explains when the drug may be prescribed to a pregnant woman.

• Ritalin LA Overdose

Fever, shakiness, and confusion are possible signs of a Ritalin LA overdose. This eMedTV article describes other effects of an overdose, factors that determine them, and the various treatment options that are available, including supportive care.

• Generic Ritalin LA

The earliest date that a generic form of Ritalin LA may be available is 2015. As this eMedTV Web page explains, until an approved version actually becomes available, do not buy any so-called "generic Ritalin LA" products that are on the market.

• Alternatives to Ritalin LA

Alternatives to Ritalin LA include other ADHD medications or lifestyle changes. This eMedTV article lists common drugs used to treat the condition and describes the social, educational, and mental therapies that are incorporated into treatment plans.