Ritalin

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Prescription Drug Information, Side Effects & Interactions for Ritalin

Uses
This medication increases mental alertness. It is used in those who have problems staying awake (narcolepsy) and for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Methyphenidate may also be used for treating depression in certain cases.

Notes

Do not allow anyone else to take this medication.

Storage

Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (between 15 and 30 degrees C) away from moisture and sunlight.
Do not store in the bathroom.

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How To Use

This medication is best taken 30 to 45 minutes before a meal or take as directed by your doctor.
Dosage depends on your condition and response to this medication.
If loss of appetite occurs or if you experience stomach upset, it may be taken with or after meals or a snack.
Use this medication exactly as prescribed.
Do not increase your dose, use it more frequently or use it for a longer period of time than prescribed because this drug can be habit-forming.
Also, if used for a long period of time, do not suddenly stop using this without first consulting your doctor.
When used for extended periods, this medication may not work as well and may require different dosing.
Consult your doctor if the medication isn't working well.

Side Effects

Loss of appetite, blurred vision, dizziness, lightheadedness, dry mouth, stomach upset, sleeplessness, irritability or constipation may occur the first few days as your body adjusts to the medication.
If these effects persist or worsen, inform your doctor.
Notify your doctor if you experience weight loss, chest pain, nervousness, pounding heart, difficulty urinating, mood changes, or yellowing eyes and skin.
In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention.
Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, dizziness or trouble breathing.
If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of seizures or motor tics, Tourette's disorder, glaucoma, high blood pressure, severe anxiety, alcoholism, drug dependence, mental conditions and of any allergies.
If this medication makes you dizzy or lightheaded, use caution driving or engaging in activities requiring alertness.
Methylphenidate should be used during pregnancy only when clearly needed.
Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
It is not known if methylphenidate is excreted into breast milk.
Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take as soon as remembered and take any remaining doses at evenly spaced times.
If it is near bedtime or near time for the next dose, skip that dose and resume your regular dosing schedule.
Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of all over-the-counter and prescription drugs you may use, especially anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin), MAO inhibitors (e.g., furazolidone, phenelzine, selegiline, tranylcypromine) and medications for seizures, depression (tricyclic antidepressants such as amitriptyline) or high blood pressure medications such as guanethidine.
Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.