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
Ritalinis the brand name
Ritalin Overview & Background
Brand Name
Generic Name
First FDA Approval
How many FDA approvals?
Ritalin
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
45.0 mg, 35.0 mg, 25.0 mg, , 40.0 mg, 10.0 mg, 70.0 mg, 100.0 mg, 85.0 mg, 55.0 mg, 2.5 mg, 20.0 mg, 30.0 mg, 80.0 mg, 60.0 mg, 72.0 mg, 54.0 mg, 27.0 mg, 36.0 mg, 50.0 mg, 5.0 mg, 10.0 mg/mL, 5.0 mg/mL, 18.0 mg, 15.0 mg, 63.0 mg, 3.3 mg/hour, 1.1 mg/hour, 1.6 mg/hour, 2.2 mg/hour, 30.0 mg/hour, 15.0 mg/hour, 10.0 mg/hour, 20.0 mg/hour, 30.0 mg/mL, 7.5 mg/mL, 9.0 mg/mL, 6.0 mg/mL, 25.9 mg, 8.6 mg, 17.3 mg, 1.0 mg/mL, 2.0 mg/mL
Capsule, , Capsule, extended release, Tablet, Chewable, Extended Release, Capsule, extended release - Oral, Oral, Tablet - Oral, Capsule - Oral, Solution, Tablet, extended release, Patch - Transdermal, Tablet, Solution - Oral, Tablet, orally disintegrating, Tablet, extended release - Oral, Suspension, extended release - Oral, Tablet, chewable, Suspension, extended release, Tablet, film coated, extended release - Oral, Tablet, film coated, extended release, Tablet, chewable - Oral, Tablet, Chewable, Extended Release - Oral, Patch, Transdermal, Tablet, orally disintegrating - Oral
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
45.0 mg, 35.0 mg, 25.0 mg, , 40.0 mg, 10.0 mg, 70.0 mg, 100.0 mg, 85.0 mg, 55.0 mg, 2.5 mg, 20.0 mg, 30.0 mg, 80.0 mg, 60.0 mg, 72.0 mg, 54.0 mg, 27.0 mg, 36.0 mg, 50.0 mg, 5.0 mg, 10.0 mg/mL, 5.0 mg/mL, 18.0 mg, 15.0 mg, 63.0 mg, 3.3 mg/hour, 1.1 mg/hour, 1.6 mg/hour, 2.2 mg/hour, 30.0 mg/hour, 15.0 mg/hour, 10.0 mg/hour, 20.0 mg/hour, 30.0 mg/mL, 7.5 mg/mL, 9.0 mg/mL, 6.0 mg/mL, 25.9 mg, 8.6 mg, 17.3 mg, 1.0 mg/mL, 2.0 mg/mL
Capsule, , Capsule, extended release, Tablet, Chewable, Extended Release, Capsule, extended release - Oral, Oral, Tablet - Oral, Capsule - Oral, Solution, Tablet, extended release, Patch - Transdermal, Tablet, Solution - Oral, Tablet, orally disintegrating, Tablet, extended release - Oral, Suspension, extended release - Oral, Tablet, chewable, Suspension, extended release, Tablet, film coated, extended release - Oral, Tablet, film coated, extended release, Tablet, chewable - Oral, Tablet, Chewable, Extended Release - Oral, Patch, Transdermal, Tablet, orally disintegrating - Oral
Warnings
Ritalin ContraindicationsCondition
Risk Level
Notes
symptomatic cardiovascular disease
Do Not Combine
Agitation
Do Not Combine
Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Do Not Combine
Toxoplasma Infections
Do Not Combine
Thyrotoxicosis
Do Not Combine
Open-angle glaucoma
Do Not Combine
Pheochromocytomas
Do Not Combine
Toxoplasma Infections
Do Not Combine
Tic, Motor
Do Not Combine
Gilles de la Tourette's Syndrome
Do Not Combine
Tension
Do Not Combine
Hypertensive disease
Do Not Combine
advanced arteriosclerosis
Do Not Combine
Gilles de la Tourette syndrome
Do Not Combine
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.
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
81 Actively Recruiting
Phase 4, Phase 1, Phase 2, Not Applicable, Phase 3, Early Phase 1
Narcolepsy
9 Actively Recruiting
Phase 2, Not Applicable, Phase 3
Ritalin Reviews: What are patients saying about Ritalin?
5Patient Review
9/12/2022 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 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 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 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 This medication worked really well for me and was much better than other options I've tried.
2.7Patient Review
10/15/2022 I've been on this medication for about a year as a 15-year-old trans male. I switched to Ritalin a few weeks ago and saw no change other than an inability to focus and worse tics. I moved up the dosage to 40mg a few days ago and have only experienced worsening symptoms like depression, anxiety, emotional instability, constant hunger, weight gain, and breakdowns. My parents don't believe me so I'm stuck until my next appointment.
2Patient Review
9/18/2016 I took Ritalin for four years to help with my ADHD. However, I always felt sick after taking it and had a hard time sleeping. Now I'm dealing with depression.
Patient Q&A Section about ritalin
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." - Anonymous Online Contributor
Unverified Answer
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." - Anonymous Online Contributor
Unverified Answer
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." - Anonymous Online Contributor
Unverified Answer
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." - Anonymous Online Contributor
Unverified Answer