Indications & Dose:

INDICATIONS: Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD); narcolepsy.

DOSAGE:

ADULTS: Usually 20-30mg daily in two or three doses.

CHILDREN: Above 6 years, initially 5mg once or twice daily with gradual increments of 5-10mg weekly. Max 60mg/day. Below 6 years, not recommended.

Contraindications:

Anxiety and tension states, agitation, tics, tics in siblings, a family history or diagnosis of Tourette’s syndrome, glaucoma, hyperthyroidism, cardiac arrhythmia, severe angina pectoris, hypersensitivity to methylphenidate. Treatment of severe depression

Cautions:

Precautions:

In psychotic patients Ritalin may exacerbate symptoms of behavioural disturbances and thought disorders. Prolonged administration canlead to marked tolerance and psychic dependance.

Interaction:

Hypertensives, antihypertensives, MAOI’s, tricyclic antidepressants, coumarin, some anticonvulsants and phenylbutazone.

Warnings:

Adverse Effects:

Nervousness, insomnia, headache, dizziness, dyskinesia, blurring of vision, cramps, tics, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, tachycardia, palpitation, arrhythmia, changes in blood pressure, heart rate, rash, pruritus, urticaria, fever, arthralgia, moderately reduced weight gain and minor retardation of growth in stature may occur in children during prolonged therapy

Lactations:

Special Precautions:

Counselling:

Side Effects Or Adverse Reactions:

Patient And Carer Advice: