people with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder use Ritalin to control their .
symptoms. It produces a calming effect in people with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity .
Disorder. Ritalin affects performance so patients need to be advised against driving or .
operating machinery (Wright, 1997).
Side effects of methylphenidate are decreased appetite while drug is in the .
system, therefore leading to weight loss, and mild insomnia can be a possibility if the last .
dose is given too close to bedtime. Headaches, abdominal problems, fever, skin rash, .
dermatitis, angina, and alopecia are also common problems with the use of this drug. .
Ritalin has also been known to cause tearfulness, lethargy, depression, facial or other .
involuntary twitches, erratic heartbeat, an increase in sudden seizures, and a development .
of psychosis (Wright, 1997). Adverse reactions are nervousness, agitation, anxiety, and .
erythema multiforme from a hypersensitivity reaction. Anorexia, sinus tachycardia, and .
Tourettes" syndrome has also been reported. A casual relationship between the use of .
Ritalin and blood dyscrasias are currently being researched. Periodic Complete Blood .
Counts, differential, and platelet count are now advised during long-term therapy with .
Ritalin (Parkinsn's List Drug Database).
Contraindications with Ritalin are a history of emotional instability, substance abuse or alcoholism, seizure disorders, hypertension, anxiety disorders, major depression, .
glaucoma, and motor tics. It should not be given to patients with a family history of .
Tourette's syndrome. It can be given cautiously to emotionally unstable patients. .
Methylphenidate interacts with endogenous and exogenous vasopressors, and some .
anticonvulsants, especially Phenobarbital, tricyclic antidepressants, antihypertensives, .
and diuretics. Ritalin should not be given with other central nervous system stimulants .
and caffeine. Careful supervision is required during withdraw from Ritalin because .