Methylphenidate

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Also indexed as:

Metadate ER, Methylin, Ritalin, Ritalin-SR

Methylphenidate is a stimulant drug with actions similar to amphetamines. It is used as an adjunct to a complete program to treat children with attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder. Methylphenidate is also used to treat people with narcolepsy.

Herbs

Summary of Interactions for Methylphenidate

Depletion or interference	None known
Adverse interaction	Alcohol
Side effect reduction/prevention	None known
Supportive interaction	None known
Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability	None known

An asterisk (*) next to an item in the summary indicates that the interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.

Other Interactions

Food

Some researchers have recommended that methylphenidate be taken 30 to 45 minutes before meals,¹ although it has been reported that methylphenidate was absorbed faster² and was equally effective³ taken with food. Sustained-release methylphenidate (Ritalin®-SR) tablets should be swallowed whole, without crushing or chewing.⁴

Alcohol

Methylphenidate may impair physical coordination and cause dizziness or drowsiness.⁵ Alcohol may intensify these effects, increasing the risk of accidental injury. To prevent problems, people taking methylphenidate should avoid alcohol.

References

1. Threlkeld DS, ed. Central Nervous System Drugs, Miscellaneous Psychotherapeutic Agents, Methylphenidate HCl. In Facts and Comparisons Drug Information. St. Louis, MO: Facts and Comparisons, Feb 1997, 268t-8v.
2. Chan YP, Swanson JM, Soldin SS, et al. Methylphenidate hydrochloride given with or before breakfast: II. Effects on plasma concentration of methylphenidate and ritalinic acid. Pediatrics 1983;72:56-9.
3. Swanson JM, Sandman CA, Deutsch C, Baren M. Methylphenidate hydrochloride given with or before breakfast: I. Behavioral, cognitive, and electrophysiologic effects. Pediatrics 1983;72:49-55.
4. Threlkeld DS, ed. Central Nervous System Drugs, Miscellaneous Psychotherapeutic Agents, Methylphenidate HCl. In Facts and Comparisons Drug Information. St. Louis, MO: Facts and Comparisons, Feb 1997, 268t-8v.
5. Threlkeld DS, ed. Central Nervous System Drugs, Miscellaneous Psychotherapeutic Agents, Methylphenidate HCl. In Facts and Comparisons Drug Information. St. Louis, MO: Facts and Comparisons, Feb 1997, 268t-8v.

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Last Review: 01-21-2009

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