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Methylphenidate Uses
from eMedTV.comMethylphenidate is also used for the treatment of narcolepsy. Possible symptoms include falling asleep uncontrollably and at unusual times. People with the condition often appear paralyzed when they are asleep and have hallucinations when falling asleep. People with narcolepsy also often fall asleep several times during the day.
For people with narcolepsy, methylphenidate has a stimulating effect (because it is taken in higher doses), which helps patients stay awake during the day.
Methylphenidate is not recommended for children under the age of six. Talk to your healthcare provider about the benefits and risks of using the drug in young children.
On occasion, your healthcare provider may recommend methylphenidate for treating something other than the conditions discussed in this article. This is called an "off-label" use. At this time, there are a few off-label methylphenidate uses, such as:
- Treating adult ADHD (see Ritalin for Adults)
- Treating depression (see Ritalin and Depression)
- Helping with weight loss (see Ritalin and Weight Loss).
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD