Methylphenidate

Please note: these are basic guidelines, refer to your doctor for a professional medical opinion.

 

Popular brand names:

Concerta, Methylphenidate HCl-Douglas, Ritalin

Drug group:

Nervous system stimulant

Prescription needed?

Yes

 

What does it do?

Methylphenidate is used in adults and children in the treatment of:

• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Narcolepsy

 

How does it work?

• Methylphenidate is related to amphetamines - similar stimulant properties
• Paradoxically it can also reduce the overactivity in ADHD

 

How should it be used?

• Tablets/capsules should be swallowed whole (not chewed) and taken before meals
• Methylphenidate should only be used in children with moderate to severe ADHD when psychological treatments have been unsuccessful

 

What is the typical dosage?

Your doctor will recommend a dosage tailored to your need, but typically:

• Usually taken 1-2 x daily (an extra bedtime dose may be needed)
• ADHD: 5mg– 100mg daily (2.5mg for children <6 years)
• Narcolepsy: 10–60mg daily

How quickly will it start to work?

1–2 hours               
            

How long will the effects last?

3–6 hours (up to 9 hours for slow release preparations)      

When should I stop using it?

Do not stop the drug without consulting your doctor     
                            

Is it safe for prolonged use?

No problems expected in adults.

Prolonged use in children can interfere with growth and this needs to be monitored regularly.

If growth is affected, it often returns to normal once the drug is stopped.

 

What are the possible side effects?

Side effects from methylphenidate are common but not serious.

The following have been reported:

• More common: nausea, abdominal discomfort, dry mouth, irritability, agitation, aggression, rash, palpitations
• Less common: depression
• Report to your doctor before taking your next dose if you experience: any severe symptoms

 

What other considerations are important?

Dosage may be adjusted by your doctor under certain conditions.

• Certain health problems: heart problems, family history of Tourette’s syndrome, history of drug dependency, epilepsy
• Other medicines: SSRI’s, tricylcic antidepressants, MAOI antidepressants, phenytoin, oral anticoagulants (e.g. warfarin)
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Safety not established
• Children: Dose varies according to age
• Over 60: Not usually prescribed
• Driving and hazardous work: Avoid until you know how the drug affects you
• Alcohol: Avoid, the drug’s effects may be enhanced by alcohol