Although most people are able to take Ritalin® (methylphenidate hydrochloride) without developing side effects, this medication is not free of potential problems. Some of the most common risks associated with Ritalin involve:
When taking Ritalin, you also are at risk of increased blood pressure and heart rate. In most cases, the increase is small and does not cause problems. However, there is an increased risk for people who already have high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, certain irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias), or who have recently had a heart attack.
In addition, taking an overdose of Ritalin can lead to symptoms like hyperactivity, confusion, and seizures.
(To learn more about the risks associated with this drug, click Ritalin Warnings and Precautions and Ritalin Side Effects. These articles talk about the problems that were reported in clinical trials and give more in-depth information on what to discuss with your healthcare provider before beginning treatment.)
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