Methylphenidate Hydrochloride (thing)

Pharmacologic class

Methylphenidate Hydrochloride is a CNS stimulant of mild potency.

Ritalin

Methylphenidate Hydrochloride is generally prescribed to patients suffering from an Attention Deficit Disorder or Narcolepsy.

It is not entirely understood how Methylphenidate Hydrochloride works in human beings, but it is assumed that it activates the brainstem arousal system and cortex in order to create its stimulant effects.

Methylphenidate Hydrochloride is contraindicated by the following:

• Tension
• Agitation
• Marked anxiety
• In patients known to be hypersensitive to Methylphenidate Hydrochloride
• In patients with motor tics
• In patients with a family history of or diagnosis of Tourette's syndrome

Patients with stress or agitation may not react well. Periodic bloodwork should be done to monitor C.C. differential and platelet counts.

Methylphenidate Hydrochloride may interact with the following substances:

• Guanethidine - decreases its hypotensive effect
• Pressor agents
• MAO Inhibitors
• Coumarin anticoagulants - inhibits their metabolism
• Anticonvulsants - inhibits their metabolism
• Phenylbutazone - inhibits its metabolism
• Tricyclic anti-depressants - inhibits their metabolism

Common

• Insomnia
• Nervousness

Uncommon

• Hypersensitivity
• Anorexia
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Palpitations
• Headache
• Dyskinesia
• Drowsiness
• Blood pressure and pulse changes
• Tachycardia, angina, or cardiac arrhythmia
• Abdominal pain
• Weight loss

Rare

• Tourette's syndrome
• Toxic psychosis

Isolated Cases

• Abnormal liver function
• Cerebral arteritis and/or occlusion
• Leukopenia and/or anemia
• Temporarily depressed mood
• Hair loss of the scalp

Methylphenidate Hydrochloride comes in tablet form in dosages of 5, 10, and 20 miligram potency. There is a 20mg sustained release tablet as well.

August 8, 2002