Ritalin

Narcolepsy, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Treatment
20 Active Studies for Ritalin

What is Ritalin

MethylphenidateThe Generic name of this drug
Treatment SummaryMethylphenidate, also known as Ritalin, Concerta, and Biphentin, is a medication used to treat Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). This drug works by increasing the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain, which helps improve concentration and reduce impulsivity. It is usually prescribed in combination with other treatments such as psychological, educational, and cognitive behavior therapies. Long-acting formulations of methylphenidate are the most effective and widely used treatment for ADHD, and can be given once daily for up to 12 hours. Methylphenidate carries a black box warning due to
Methylphenidate Hydrochlorideis the brand name
image of different drug pills on a surface
Ritalin Overview & Background
Brand Name
Generic Name
First FDA Approval
How many FDA approvals?
Methylphenidate Hydrochloride
Methylphenidate
1955
490

Effectiveness

How Ritalin Affects PatientsMethylphenidate is made up of two different forms (d- and l-isomers). The d-isomer is what actually works and binds to dopamine in the brain, particularly in the prefrontal cortex which is associated with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). In animal studies, this drug has been shown to increase movement and cause certain behaviors.
How Ritalin works in the bodyMethylphenidate works to treat ADHD by increasing the amount of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. It does this by blocking certain receptors that keep these neurotransmitters from being released. Low doses of methylphenidate are used to improve focus, reduce impulsivity, and increase cognitive function, while higher doses can cause impaired cognition and locomotor-activating effects. Research shows that the drug works by interacting with the dopamine transporter gene (DAT1), the D4 receptor gene (DRD-4), and/or the D2 receptor gene, suggesting a possible mode of action.

When to interrupt dosage

The measure of Ritalin is contingent upon the recognized condition. The measure of dosage varies, in accordance with the technique of delivery indicated in the table beneath.
Condition
Dosage
Administration
Narcolepsy
20.0 mg, , 30.0 mg, 40.0 mg, 10.0 mg, 60.0 mg, 27.0 mg, 36.0 mg, 54.0 mg, 50.0 mg, 5.0 mg, 2.5 mg, 5.0 mg/mL, 10.0 mg/mL, 18.0 mg, 80.0 mg, 15.0 mg, 10.0 mg/hour, 20.0 mg/hour, 15.0 mg/hour, 30.0 mg/hour, 30.0 mg/mL, 6.0 mg/mL, 7.5 mg/mL, 9.0 mg/mL, 8.6 mg, 25.9 mg, 17.3 mg, 1.0 mg/mL, 2.0 mg/mL, 25.0 mg, 35.0 mg, 55.0 mg, 70.0 mg, 85.0 mg, 100.0 mg, 45.0 mg, 72.0 mg, 63.0 mg
, Oral, Capsule, extended release - Oral, Capsule, extended release, Tablet, Tablet - Oral, Capsule, Capsule - Oral, Tablet, film coated, extended release, Tablet, film coated, extended release - Oral, Tablet, chewable, Tablet, chewable - Oral, Solution, Solution - Oral, Tablet, extended release, Tablet, extended release - Oral, Tablet, Chewable, Extended Release, Tablet, Chewable, Extended Release - Oral, Transdermal, Patch, Patch - Transdermal, Suspension, extended release, Suspension, extended release - Oral, Tablet, orally disintegrating, Tablet, orally disintegrating - Oral
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
20.0 mg, , 30.0 mg, 40.0 mg, 10.0 mg, 60.0 mg, 27.0 mg, 36.0 mg, 54.0 mg, 50.0 mg, 5.0 mg, 2.5 mg, 5.0 mg/mL, 10.0 mg/mL, 18.0 mg, 80.0 mg, 15.0 mg, 10.0 mg/hour, 20.0 mg/hour, 15.0 mg/hour, 30.0 mg/hour, 30.0 mg/mL, 6.0 mg/mL, 7.5 mg/mL, 9.0 mg/mL, 8.6 mg, 25.9 mg, 17.3 mg, 1.0 mg/mL, 2.0 mg/mL, 25.0 mg, 35.0 mg, 55.0 mg, 70.0 mg, 85.0 mg, 100.0 mg, 45.0 mg, 72.0 mg, 63.0 mg
, Oral, Capsule, extended release - Oral, Capsule, extended release, Tablet, Tablet - Oral, Capsule, Capsule - Oral, Tablet, film coated, extended release, Tablet, film coated, extended release - Oral, Tablet, chewable, Tablet, chewable - Oral, Solution, Solution - Oral, Tablet, extended release, Tablet, extended release - Oral, Tablet, Chewable, Extended Release, Tablet, Chewable, Extended Release - Oral, Transdermal, Patch, Patch - Transdermal, Suspension, extended release, Suspension, extended release - Oral, Tablet, orally disintegrating, Tablet, orally disintegrating - Oral

Warnings

Ritalin Contraindications
Condition
Risk Level
Notes
advanced arteriosclerosis
Do Not Combine
Gilles de la Tourette syndrome
Do Not Combine
Thyrotoxicosis
Do Not Combine
Pulse Frequency
Do Not Combine
Open-angle glaucoma
Do Not Combine
Hypertensive disease
Do Not Combine
Pulse Frequency
Do Not Combine
Tension-Type Headache
Do Not Combine
Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Do Not Combine
symptomatic cardiovascular disease
Do Not Combine
Tourette Syndrome
Do Not Combine
Pheochromocytoma
Do Not Combine
Tics
Do Not Combine
Agitation
Do Not Combine
There are 20 known major drug interactions with Ritalin.
Common Ritalin Drug Interactions
Drug Name
Risk Level
Description
Desflurane
Major
Methylphenidate may increase the hypertensive activities of Desflurane.
Diethyl ether
Major
Methylphenidate may increase the hypertensive activities of Diethyl ether.
Enflurane
Major
Methylphenidate may increase the hypertensive activities of Enflurane.
Halothane
Major
Methylphenidate may increase the hypertensive activities of Halothane.
Isoflurane
Major
Methylphenidate may increase the hypertensive activities of Isoflurane.
Ritalin Toxicity & Overdose RiskOverdosing on caffeine can cause vomiting, restlessness, shaking, increased reflexes, muscle twitching, seizures, elation, confusion, seeing things that are not real, extreme excitement, sweating, blushing, headaches, high fever, rapid heartbeat, abnormal heart rhythm, high blood pressure, dilated pupils, and dryness of the mouth. The toxic dose in mice has been found to be 190mg/kg when taken orally.
image of a doctor in a lab doing drug, clinical research

Ritalin Novel Uses: Which Conditions Have a Clinical Trial Featuring Ritalin?

Currently, there are 84 studies assessing the potential of Ritalin in alleviating Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.
Condition
Clinical Trials
Trial Phases
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
65 Actively Recruiting
Not Applicable, Phase 3, Phase 4, Phase 2, Phase 1, Early Phase 1
Narcolepsy
1 Actively Recruiting
Phase 1

Ritalin Reviews: What are patients saying about Ritalin?

5Patient Review
9/12/2022
Ritalin for Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity
I'm 32 years old and have always had a very strong case of ADHD. I took Ritalin for the first time today and feel better than ever before. There are lots of things that feel better now while taking Ritalin. I wouldn't go back to not having it because it's made my life much more focused and comfortable.
5Patient Review
9/2/2021
Ritalin for Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity
Ritalyn has helped me so much with my ADHD. I'm able to focus better and function more smoothly in all aspects of life.
3.7Patient Review
6/6/2016
Ritalin for Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity
I took this medication for my ADHD and it did help me focus more; however, the depression that set in after it wore off was really tough to deal with. Additionally, I had headaches almost every day while taking it which led to me discontinuing use.
3.7Patient Review
10/20/2020
Ritalin for Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity
I've found this treatment to be mostly effective. I'm more productive when on it and generally feel happier. Though, I do experience some physical side effects that are a bit strange. Also,I'm a bit nervous because many people say this causes depression--which is not good considering my history of self-harm and suicide attempts.
3.7Patient Review
3/22/2017
Ritalin for Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity
This medication worked really well for me and was much better than other options I've tried.
View All Reviews
image of drug pills surrounding a glass of water symbolizing drug consumption

Patient Q&A Section about ritalin

These questions and answers are submitted by anonymous patients, and have not been verified by our internal team.

Is Ritalin or Adderall better?

"Ritalin works more quickly than Adderall does, but Adderall lasts longer. Adderall is active for four to six hours, while Ritalin only lasts for two to three hours."

Answered by AI

How does taking Ritalin make you feel?

"ADHD patients on Ritalin typically say they feel more focus, in control, and have a greater sense of clarity. Ritalin, as a stimulant, can make people feel more alert, awake, and talkative, or even create a sense of euphoria."

Answered by AI

What does Ritalin do to a person?

"What is the purpose of Ritalin?

Ritalin is a medication that stimulates the mind and body in adults and can calm children down. It is most commonly used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children. However, it is not usually recommended for children younger than 6 years old."

Answered by AI

Is Ritalin different from Adderall?

"Both Ritalin and Adderall work similarly in the brain and have similar side effects. The primary difference is that Ritalin works more quickly and reaches peak performance earlier than Adderall, which stays in the system for a longer period of time."

Answered by AI

Clinical Trials for Ritalin

Have you considered Ritalin clinical trials? We made a collection of clinical trials featuring Ritalin, we think they might fit your search criteria.
Have you considered Ritalin clinical trials? We made a collection of clinical trials featuring Ritalin, we think they might fit your search criteria.
Have you considered Ritalin clinical trials? We made a collection of clinical trials featuring Ritalin, we think they might fit your search criteria.
Unbiased ResultsWe believe in providing patients with all the options.
Your Data Stays Your DataWe only share your information with the clinical trials you're trying to access.
Verified Trials OnlyAll of our trials are run by licensed doctors, researchers, and healthcare companies.
Back to top