Precautions and Warnings With Methylphenidate (Cont.)

Specific Precautions and Warnings With Methylphenidate

Warnings and precautions to be aware of before taking methylphenidate include the following:
 
  • Stimulants (including methylphenidate) are often abused. Taking drugs of this nature for a long time can lead to dependence on them (see Ritalin Abuse). Because methylphenidate is commonly abused, there are special rules for prescribing it (see Ritalin: A Controlled Substance).
     
  • In people with psychotic disorders (such as schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder), methylphenidate can make psychotic symptoms worse, including thought disorders and behavior problems.
     
  • Sudden death has been reported in children and adults with heart problems who were taking normal doses of the drug. If you or your child has heart problems, ask your healthcare provider whether methylphenidate is appropriate in your situation. Also, let your healthcare provider know if you or your child develops any chest tightness, chest pain, shortness of breath, or fainting.
     
  • Methylphenidate can cause an increase in blood pressure and heart rate. In most cases, the increase is small and does not cause problems. However, there is an increased risk for people who already have high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, certain irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias), or who have recently had a heart attack.
     
  • The drug can cause decreased weight gain and temporarily slow down the growth of children. This slowing down of growth is usually small (less than an inch and less than two pounds), and children usually catch up to their normal growth rates with time. Your child's growth should be monitored while he or she is taking methylphenidate.
     
  • Methylphenidate may affect your ability to perform tasks that require complete concentration, such as driving, operating machinery, or piloting an airplane, especially during the first few weeks of treatment. It is recommended that you discuss this with your healthcare provider prior to treatment.
     
  • Methylphenidate can interact with certain medications (see Drug Interactions With Methylphenidate).
     
  • Methylphenidate is considered a pregnancy Category C medication. This means that it may not be safe to use during pregnancy. Discuss the safety of the drug with your healthcare provider before using it during pregnancy (see Ritalin and Pregnant Women for more information).
     
  • It is not known if methylphenidate passes through breast milk. Therefore, if you are breastfeeding or plan to start, discuss this with your healthcare provider.
     
(Precautions and Warnings With Methylphenidate Continued: Page 3)

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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;