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Archive for the ‘Psychostimulant’ Category

What is Ritalin?

Ritalin is Novartis Pharmaceuticals’ brand name for methylphenidate, a prescription psychostimulant used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. It is also used off-label for the treatment of lethargy and depression and as an appetite suppressant in cases of obesity. Although it is used to treat ADHD in children it is not licensed for the treatment of ADHD in adults. However, some doctors may use it off-label for this purpose.

Ritalin works by inhibit monoamine reuptake, increasing dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain. Its effects are similar to those of cocaine, although it has less damaging side effects and is longer in duration. It is chemically similar to amphetamine.

What does Ritalin look like?

Ritalin is available in a wide variety of proprietary and generic preparations, in pills of strength between 5 and 40 mg.

Ritalin dosing and administration

Dosage of Ritalin depends on age, the purpose for which it is being used and any other medications being taken. The standard starting dosage for children aged 6 and over is 5 mg twice a day. The doctor may increase this incrementally up to a maximum of 60 mg per day. The dose for adults with narcolepsy is usually a total of 20 to 30 mg in divided doses. Individual sensitivity varies with the maximum being 60 mg per day. If Ritalin is taken in two doses daily, these should be taken before breakfast and before lunch. Ritalin taken later in the day may cause difficulties sleeping. Although it may be taken either with or without food, it is preferable to take it 30 or 40 minutes before meals.

Common adverse effects from Ritalin

The most common side effects of Ritalin are nervousness, insomnia, anorexia, nausea, abdominal pain, headache, vertigo, lethargy and weight loss. Less frequent but more serious side effects may included suicidal ideation, confusion, chest pain or palpitations, shortness of breath, depression, hallucinations, behavioral disturbances, agitation, fainting, seizures, tics and allergic reactions. In very rare cases there may be changes in liver function, hair loss or anemia. It serious side effects occur you should seek medical attention immediately. Ritalin may exacerbate symptoms of heart disorders, psychological disorders and seizures.

Ritalin warnings and precautions

You should inform your doctor before taking Ritalin if you suffer from any kind of heart problems, hypertension, any mental disorder, epilepsy, Tourette syndrome, hyperthyroidism, glaucoma or any kind of allergy. Ritalin has a strong potential for abuse and long-term use may lead to dependence. Ritalin may also exacerbate existing psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia. Cass of sudden death have been reported in both children and adults with pre-existing heart problems who have taken normal doses of Ritalin. Ritalin may lead to decreased weight gain and deceleration of growth in children. It is believed that this is usually compensated for by deferred growth, however the growth of children should be monitored while they are taking Ritalin.

Interactions with Ritalin

Ritalin may interact with monoamine oxidase inhibitors, medication to increase blood pressure, anti-seizure drugs, tricyclic antidepressants, and Warfarin.