(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:
Nervousness
Irritability
Difficulty falling or staying asleep
Nausea
Vomiting
Loss of appetite
Decreased sexual desire
Body aches
Fainting
Shortness of breath
Painful erection
Itching
Difficulty breathing
Depression
Paradoxical reactions:
Excitation
Aggression
Restlessness
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:
Warfarin
SSRIs
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.
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.
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