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Ritalin is a drug used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD. This medicine works by changing the concentration of certain substances that occur naturally in the brain. The greatest benefits of Ritalin treatment can be seen with regular use. What should I know about Ritalin?
Ritalin is a drug indicated for the treatment of ADHD. The medicine helps patients to focus their attention on the activity being performed, concentration and control over the patient’s behavior. When using Ritalin, the most important thing is to take it regularly, preferably at the same time every day.
Ritalin – an indication
The indication for the use of Ritalin is the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It works by changing the amount of certain natural substances found in the brain. Ritalin is a stimulant. It can help increase your ability to focus, concentrate on what you are doing, and control behavior problems.
Ritalin can also help organize the patient’s own work and listen carefully.
Ritalin is also helpful in treating some sleep disorders (e.g. narcolepsy).
Ritalin – application
Ritalin is taken orally as directed by your doctor, usually 2 or 3 times a day. The drug should be taken 30 – 45 minutes before a meal. If you have stomach problems, you can take it with or immediately after food. Taking Ritalin in the evening may cause sleep problems.
Regular use of Ritalin has the greatest benefit, so you should take it at the same time each day.
The dosage depends on your medical condition and response to treatment. Your doctor may advise you to gradually increase or decrease the dose of Ritalin. In addition, if you take Ritalin for a long time, you must not stop your treatment without consulting your doctor as withdrawal symptoms may appear, e.g. depression or thoughts of suicide. With long-term use of Ritalin, symptoms of tolerance may also appear, which means that the dose should be increased. In such a situation, you should always consult a doctor.
Ritalin – side effects
As a consequence of using Ritalin, you may experience nervousness, trouble sleeping, loss of appetite, weight loss, dizziness, nausea, vomiting or headache. If any of these symptoms persist or worsen, tell your doctor promptly.
Ritalin can raise your blood pressure, so it is important to have it monitored during treatment.
You should see a doctor immediately if you develop problems with blood flow in the fingers and toes (numbness, pain or changes in color of the skin), strange sores on the fingers and toes, heart problems, changes in behavior and mood (e.g. agitation, aggression), uncontrolled muscle movements (e.g. twitching, tremors), visual disturbances.
You should see your doctor immediately if you have any serious side effects, including fainting, fits, symptoms of a heart attack or stroke symptoms.
Men may rarely experience a painful or lasting erection lasting 4 or more hours. Caregivers or parents should also pay attention to this side effect in boys. If you experience a painful or prolonged erection, stop taking Ritalin and get medical help immediately, otherwise permanent problems may occur.
Hypersensitivity symptoms such as rash, itching or swelling, severe dizziness, breathing problems may also appear.
During the interview, the patient or his caregiver should inform the doctor about the medical history. While taking Ritalin, you should not drive a car, operate machinery, or perform other activities that require vigilance.
In children, it can affect the child’s growth rate and weight. The risk is reduced if your doctor advises you to stop Ritalin temporarily.
Ritalin should only be used during pregnancy if absolutely necessary. In addition, the drug passes into breast milk, so consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Ritalin – interactions
Ritalin interacts with some medications. It can change the way drugs work or increase the risk of serious side effects. It is imperative to inform the physician prescribing Ritalin about all medications you are taking, including those without a prescription. For example, taking Ritalin with MAO inhibitors may cause serious (potentially fatal) drug interactions, and their use should be avoided.
In addition, Ritalin may interfere with certain medical and laboratory tests (including, for example, brain testing for Parkinson’s disease), possibly leading to false results. Make sure the healthcare professionals know you are taking Ritalin.
Ritalin – overdose
In the event of an overdose and you become unconscious or have difficulty breathing, you should quickly call an emergency number. Symptoms of overdose may include: vomiting, agitation, confusion, sweating, hot flushes, muscle twitching, hallucinations, convulsions, loss of consciousness.
Ritalin – precautions
Ritalin should not be taken on your own or shared with others.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost bedtime or it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Take the next dose of Ritalin at the usual time. Do not double the dose to catch up.
You should not drink alcohol while taking Ritalin as it may increase the side effects.
Before use, read the leaflet, which contains indications, contraindications, data on side effects and dosage as well as information on the use of the medicinal product, or consult your doctor or pharmacist, as each drug used improperly is a threat to your life or health.