Ritalin Generic Name: METHYLPHENIDATE (meth-ill-FEN-i-date)

Ritalin Drug Manufacturer: NOVARTIS

Ritalin Common Uses: This medicine is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant used to treat narcolepsy (sudden and uncontrollable attacks of drowsiness and sleep) and attention-deficit disorders. It may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor. This medicine should not be used to treat tiredness or depression.

How to use this Ritalin Medicine: Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. CHILDREN: Take your dose exactly at the times indicated by your doctor. ADULTS: Take your dose 30 to 45 minutes before meals or as directed by your doctor. TO PREVENT THIS MEDICINE FROM AFFECTING SLEEP: try not to take a dose later than 6 pm. STORE THIS MEDICINE at room temperature, away from heat and light. IF YOU MISS A DOSE OF THIS MEDICINE, take it as soon as possible. Take the remaining doses for the day at evenly spaced intervals. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Ritalin Cautions: DO NOT EXCEED THE RECOMMENDED DOSE or take this medicine for longer than prescribed without checking with your doctor. DO NOT STOP TAKING THIS MEDICINE without first checking with your doctor. KEEP ALL DOCTOR AND LABORATORY APPOINTMENTS while you are using this medicine. DO NOT DRIVE, OPERATE MACHINERY, OR DO ANYTHING ELSE THAT COULD BE DANGEROUS until you know how you react to this medicine. Using this medicine alone, with other medicines, or with alcohol may lessen your ability to drive or to perform other potentially dangerous tasks. BEFORE YOU BEGIN TAKING ANY NEW MEDICINE, either prescription or over-the-counter, check with your doctor or pharmacist. FOR WOMEN: IF YOU PLAN ON BECOMING PREGNANT, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this medicine during pregnancy. IT IS UNKNOWN IF THIS MEDICINE IS EXCRETED in breast milk. IF YOU ARE OR WILL BE BREAST-FEEDING while you are using this medicine, check with your doctor or pharmacist to discuss the risks to your baby.

Ritalin Possible Side Effects: SIDE EFFECTS that may occur while taking this medicine include decreased appetite (more severe in children), stomach upset, difficulty falling asleep, headache, nervousness, or dizziness. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. CHECK WITH YOUR DOCTOR AS SOON AS POSSIBLE if you experience a fever, joint pain, weight loss, irregular heartbeat, chest pain, vision changes or blurred vision, seizures, involuntary muscle movements, or changes in mood or personality. AN ALLERGIC REACTION to this medicine is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or trouble breathing. If you notice any other effects, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

Overdose: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, seizures, restlessness, fast or irregular heartbeat, and fainting.

Additional Information: DO NOT SHARE THIS MEDICINE with others for whom it was not prescribed. DO NOT USE THIS MEDICINE for other health conditions. KEEP THIS MEDICINE out of the reach of children and pets. IF USING THIS MEDICINE FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD OF TIME, obtain refills before your supply runs out.