Ritalin
® (
methylphenidate hydrochloride) is a prescription medication used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (
ADHD). It is also used to treat
narcolepsy.
Ritalin is manufactured by Novartis Pharmaceuticals.
Generic Ritalin is made by several different manufacturers.
As mentioned above, Ritalin is licensed to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD for short. In addition to hyperactivity (having trouble sitting still), people with ADHD also have problems paying attention, focusing, and controlling their behavior. While most people think of ADHD as a problem in children, it can also occur in adults
(see Adult ADHD). However, Ritalin is not approved to treat ADHD in adults
(see Ritalin for Adults).
Ritalin is also licensed for the treatment of narcolepsy. This is a condition that involves falling asleep uncontrollably and at unusual times. People who have narcolepsy often appear paralyzed when they are asleep and have hallucinations when falling asleep. These people also often fall asleep several times during the day.
Ritalin is a stimulant, although it can have effects that are opposite from what would be expected of a stimulant. While stimulants (like caffeine) can cause hyperactivity, Ritalin has a calming effect when used at the doses intended for
ADHD treatment. While it is unknown exactly how Ritalin produces a calming effect, it is known that the drug affects certain chemicals in the brain
(see Methylphenidate and D2 Receptors).
For
people with narcolepsy, Ritalin does act as a stimulant (because it is taken in higher doses). This helps people to be alert and stay awake during the day.
When and How to Take Ritalin
General considerations for when and how to take Ritalin include the following:
- Ritalin comes in tablet form. It is usually taken by mouth two or three times a day.
- Usually, the last dose of Ritalin should be taken before 6 p.m. (taking it later could cause difficulty sleeping).
- You can take Ritalin with or without food.
- For Ritalin to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. The drug will not work if you stop taking it.
Dosing Information for Ritalin
The dose of Ritalin that your healthcare provider recommends will vary, depending on a number of factors, including:
- Your age
- Other narcolepsy or ADHD medications you have tried
- Other medical conditions you may have
- Other medications you are currently taking.
As with any medication, do not adjust your Ritalin dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
As with any medicine, side effects are possible with Ritalin. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate the medicine quite well. If side effects do occur, they are often minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider.
The most common side effects of Ritalin include:
(Click Ritalin Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects to look out for.)
You can also read about other possible side effects by clicking the following eMedTV links:
Drug Interactions With Ritalin
Ritalin can potentially interact with a number of medicines
(see Ritalin Interactions for more information).
Ritalin: What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?
You should talk with your healthcare provider before taking Ritalin if you have:
Also let your healthcare provider know if you:
- Are allergic to any medications
- Are pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant (see Ritalin and Pregnant Women)
- Are breastfeeding
- Drink alcohol regularly.
Tell your healthcare provider about all other medicines you may be taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
What If I Take an Overdose of Ritalin?
People who take too much Ritalin may have overdose symptoms that could include:
- Hyperactivity (trouble sitting still)
- Rapid breathing
- Confusion
- Seizures
- Fever
- Muscle pains
- Shakiness
- Aggressiveness
- Hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that are not really there).
If you happen to overdose on Ritalin, seek immediate medical attention.
How Should Ritalin Be Stored?
Ritalin should be stored at room temperature away from moisture or heat. The tablets should be kept in an airtight container.
Keep Ritalin and all medications out of the reach of children.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose of Ritalin?
If you do not take your Ritalin as scheduled, take your missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Taking a dose after 6 p.m. may cause trouble sleeping. A double dose of Ritalin should never be taken.
Ritalin tablets are available in three strengths:
- Ritalin 5 mg tablets
- Ritalin 10 mg tablets
- Ritalin 20 mg tablets.
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