Ritalin

Blood pressure should be monitored in anyone taking this drug, especially those with high blood pressure.

Some people have had visual disturbances such as blurred vision while being treated with this drug.

The use of this drug by anyone with a seizure disorder is not recommended. Be sure your doctor is aware of any problem in this area. Caution is also advisable for anyone with a history of emotional instability or substance abuse, due to the danger of addiction. If abused, Ritalin may lead to tolerance, dependence, and psychotic episodes. Careful supervision is necessary during Ritalin withdrawal, since it may cause severe depression.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Ritalin

If this medication is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either can be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining this drug with the following:

• Antiseizure drugs such as Phenobarbital and phenytoin
• Antidepressants
• Blood thinners such as warfarin
• Clonidine
• Drugs that restore blood pressure, such as epinephrine
• Guanethidine
• MAO inhibitors (drugs such as the antidepressants phenlzine and tranylcypromine)
• Phenylbutazone

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

The effects of this drug during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. It is not known if this drug appears in breast milk. If this medication is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to discontinue nursing your baby until your treatment with this medication is finished.

Recommended dosage for Ritalin

ADULTS

Ritalin Tablets

The average dosage is 20 to 30 milligrams a day, divided into 2 or 3 doses, preferably taken 30 to 45 minutes before meals. Some people may need 40 to 60 milligrams daily, others only 10 to 15 milligrams. Your doctor will determine the best dose.

Ritalin-SR

These tablets keep working for 8 hours. They may be used in place of Ritalin tablets if they deliver a comparable dose over an 8-hour period.