Has your doctor prescribed methylphenidate for your child, or for you? It is commonly known by the brand name `(Ritalin)`. When you pick up this prescription, you probably have a lot of questions in your mind. "What does this actually do?", "Is it safe?", "What are the things to be careful about?" You may be thinking. Don't worry, it is very common. Today we will talk about this drug in a way that you can understand, very simply.
What exactly is methylphenidate?
Simply put, this is a medication specifically for treating a condition called Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) . This medication works by controlling certain chemicals in the brain, improving a person's attention and reducing impulsive behavior. That is, it helps them sit still, study, listen, and complete tasks in an orderly manner.
In addition to ADHD, this medication is also sometimes used to treat narcolepsy, a condition in which you fall asleep all the time and cannot control it, because it helps you stay awake. This medication belongs to a class of drugs called stimulants .
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
It is extremely important to inform your doctor about any medical conditions you have before starting this medication for yourself or your child, as this medication may not be compatible with some conditions.
The most important thing is, don't hide anything from your doctor. Telling him your complete medical history is for your own safety.
If you have any of the following, be sure to tell your doctor about it.
| Disease or condition | Description |
|---|---|
| Mental problems | Frequent anxiety, panic attacks, mental illness, suicidal thoughts or attempts (in yourself or a family member). |
| Heart disease and blood pressure | Any type of heart disease, congenital heart defects, high blood pressure, hardening or blockage of the arteries. |
| Circulatory problems | Problems with blood circulation in the hands and feet. |
| Other medical conditions | Glaucoma, stroke, liver disease, seizures, thyroid disease. |
| Other habits or conditions | A history of drug or alcohol addiction, Tourette's syndrome, or motor tics. |
| Pregnancy and breastfeeding | If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding. |
| Allergies | If you are allergic to methylphenidate or any other medicine, food, or dye. |
How do you use this medicine?
- Follow your doctor's instructions: Take the medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor, in the right dose, at the right time. Never increase or decrease the dose.
- How to take: Swallow this tablet with a glass of water. It is best to take it 30-45 minutes before a meal , unless your doctor tells you otherwise.
- Effects on sleep: Since this medication may interfere with sleep, it is best to take the last dose of the day at least 4-6 hours before bedtime .
- When given to children: Although this medicine is prescribed for children over 6 years of age, there are special precautions. Therefore, the doctor will always check the child's weight, height, and other things.
- Overdose: If you suspect that you have taken more of this medicine than you think, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. Alternatively, call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital .
- Do not share: This medicine is prescribed for you only. Never share it with anyone else. It is illegal and dangerous.
What to do if you miss a dose of medicine?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take two doses at once.
Other medications that may interact with this medicine (Interactions)
It is very important to tell your doctor about any other medications you are taking (including vitamins and herbal products). Some medications may interact with this one.
| Medications that should never be taken with methylphenidate | |
|---|---|
| |
| Things to use with caution and inform your doctor about | |
|
Things to be careful about while taking the medicine
- Regular check-ups: See your doctor regularly to check your condition. Since this is a prescription medication, you will need a new prescription each time you take the medication.
- Attention and driving: This medication may affect your attention. Therefore, avoid activities that require alertness, such as driving, cycling, or operating machinery, until you know how this affects you.
- Loss of appetite: It is normal to have a loss of appetite when you first start taking the medication. Get used to eating little by little, several times a day. If you continue to have a loss of appetite, tell your doctor.
- For men: If erections last longer than 4 hours or become painful, seek medical attention immediately . This may be a serious condition that requires immediate treatment to prevent permanent damage.
- Changes in fingers: If you experience unexplained sores, numbness, pain, skin color changes (pale, blue, red), or sensitivity to temperature in your fingers (hands or feet) while taking the medicine, tell your doctor immediately.
What are the side effects?
Like any medicine, this one can have side effects, but not everyone gets them.
| Serious side effects that should be reported to your doctor or ETU immediately | |
|---|---|
| Allergies | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| Changes in heart rate | Fast or irregular heartbeat, dizziness, fainting, chest pain, difficulty breathing. |
| Increased blood pressure | Increased blood pressure. |
| Mental and behavioral changes | Severe anxiety, restlessness, mental confusion, seeing things that are not there/hearing things that are not there (hallucinations), anger, suicidal thoughts. |
| Symptoms of Stroke | Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, difficulty speaking, difficulty walking, severe headache. |
| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Restlessness, anxiety | Headache |
| Not seeing clearly | Difficulty falling asleep |
| Appetite | Weight loss |
| Nausea | |
Take-Home Message
- Methylphenidate is a very effective medication for ADHD, but only if you use it exactly as your doctor tells you.
- Tell your doctor about any other medications you are taking and any medical conditions you may have, without hiding anything.
- Keep this medicine in a safe place out of reach of children and pets. This is a medicine that can be misused.
- Never share this medicine with anyone else. Dispose of any unused tablets by mixing them with something like coffee grounds or cat litter, placing them in a tightly sealed container, and discarding them.
- If a serious side effect occurs (such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, severe mental changes), seek medical advice immediately.
- Don't be afraid to talk to your doctor about any questions or concerns you have.
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