What Is Ritalin Used For? (Cont.)

Why Is Ritalin Used for Narcolepsy?

Symptoms of narcolepsy include falling asleep uncontrollably and at unusual times during the day. People with the condition often appear paralyzed when they are asleep and have hallucinations when falling asleep.
 
For people with narcolepsy, Ritalin has a stimulating effect (because it is taken in higher doses), which helps people with it stay awake during the day.
 

Is Ritalin Used for Young Children?

Ritalin is not recommended for children under the age of six. Talk to your healthcare provider about the benefits and risks of using Ritalin in young children.
 

Is Ritalin Used For Off-Label Reasons?

On occasion, your healthcare provider may recommend Ritalin for treating something other than the conditions discussed in this article. This is called an "off-label" use. At this time, there are a few off-label Ritalin uses, such as:
 

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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;