Methylphenidate

(image source: ADDitude)

(image source: WebMD)

Overview:

Methylphenidate is a medication commonly used to treat ADHD for kids from 6-12 and adults up to the age of 65. It is known as a stimulant that helps with brain activity such as increasing focus. Along with ADHD, methylphenidate could also be used to treat narcolepsy.

Medical Uses:

Methylphenidate is a prescription drug that comes in both slow and standard-release tablets. It is usually prescribed by a physician in order to reduce the chance of addiction.

Side-effects:

1. Nervousness

2. Irritability

3. Difficulty falling or staying asleep

4. Nausea

5. Vomiting

6. Loss of appetite

7. Decreased sexual desire

8. Body aches

9. Fainting

10. Shortness of breath

11. Painful erection

12. Itching

13. Difficulty breathing

14. Depression

Paradoxical reactions:

1. Excitation

2. Aggression

3. Restlessness

4. Hyperactivity

Drug interactions:

Please be aware that drug interaction could increase the risk for serious side effects, so please make a list of all drugs/medicines you use and share it with your doctor and pharmacist.

Drugs listed below can cause drug interactions with Methylphenidate:

1. Warfarin

2. SSRIs

3. Risperidone

Dosing:

The dose for standard tablets usually starts at 5mg given twice a day for a child and 18 mg once a day for slow-release tablets. The dosage depends on the patient’s response to the treatment so it’s up to the doctor to adjust the doses.

Notes:

Consult with your doctor about your condition to reduce the chance of addiction to methylphenidate.

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Citation:

Dodson, William. "Methylphenidate: ADHD Medication Overview." ATTIDUE, www.additudemag.com/medication/methylphenidate/. Accessed 31 Dec. 2022.

"Methylphenidate for children." nhs.uk, 27 July 2021,

www.nhs.uk/medicines/methylphenidate-children/#:~:text=Methylphenidate%20is%20used%20to%20treat,is%20only%20available%20on%20prescription

"Methylphenidate HCL - Uses, Side Effects, and More." WebMD, www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-12114-94/methylphenidate-hcl-oral/methylphenidate-oral/details. Accessed 31 Dec. 2022.

"Methylphenidate." Medline Plus, 15 Jan. 2022, medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682188.html.

Ulrich, Austin. "6 Methylphenidate Interactions You Should Know About." GoodRx Health, 15 Sept. 2022, www.goodrx.com/methylphenidate/interactions.