Methylphenidate (
Ritalin )
Methylphenidate ( Ritalin ) is used to treat attention-deficit-disorder
in children. This drug is from a family of drugs known as central
nervous system stimulants. It is the drug of first choice for children
that have a severe concentration or attention problem.
Do not give this drug to
child that suffer from psychotic disorders that produce the symptoms
of attention-deficit-disorder. Long
term use may affect growth.
Warnings
Do not take monoamine
oxidase inhibitor with this drug.
Check with physician if taking
any of the following: Chlorpromazine, ethosuximide, haloperidol,
antihypertensive, medications, meperidine, norepinphrine, phenytion,
propoxphene, any beta blocker, digitalis or thyroid hormones. ( Yudofsky,
Hales & Ferguson )
The habit-forming potential is high. Psychological and
physical dependence is possible. Addiction is rare in children but a
problem with adults.
Children who take this drug on
a long-term basis should be examined every four to six months. The physician
should monitor height and weight, look for the presence of tics,
measure blood pressure and pulse, and ask about side effects. ( Yudofsky,
Hales & Ferguson )
Do not take this drug if you are pregnant or if planning
to become pregnant. Do not take if you are breast-feeding.
Do not give this drug to children under
the age of six and if over sixty with close monitoring.
Do not use if:
You had negative reactions to this or any other amphetamine in the past.
If you have glaucoma. If you have a history of drug or alcohol abuse.
Inform your Doctor
if: You had negative reactions to this or any other amphetamine
in the past. If you have epilepsy / family history of seizures, used
or using cocaine, a history of Touette's syndrome. If you are taking
any other prescription or non-prescription drug. If you plan to be under
anesthesia or having any surgery in the next few months, also if you
will be under-going any medical tests. If you have taken a monoamine
oxidase inhibitor ( MAO ) in the pass two weeks.
Methamphetamine ( Symptoms or Effects
)
Common: Nausea, loss of appetite, difficulty
sleeping or weight loss.
Rare: Abdominal pain, headache, drowsiness, dizziness,
mood changes, lack of coordination, tics/unusual movements, fast heartbeat,
skin rash, hives, blurred vision or joint/chest pain.
See physician always: Abdominal pain, headache,
drowsiness, dizziness, mood changes, lack of coordination, tics/unusual
movements, fast heartbeat, skin rash, hives, blurred vision or joint/chest
pain, loss of appetite, difficulty sleeping or weight loss.
See physician if severe:
Nausea.
Stop taking and see physician NOW:
Abdominal pain, chest pain, skin rash or hives.
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