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Methylphenidate

Also indexed as: Metadate® ER, Methylin®, Ritalin®, Ritalin® -SR

Methylphenidate is a stimulant drug with actions similar to amphetamines. It is used as an adjunct to a complete program to treat children with attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder. Methylphenidate is also used to treat people with narcolepsy.

Interactions with Foods and Other Compounds

Food
Some researchers have recommended that methylphenidate be taken 30 to 45 minutes before meals,1 although it has been reported that methylphenidate was absorbed faster2 and was equally effective3 taken with food. Sustained-release methylphenidate (Ritalin®-SR) tablets should be swallowed whole, without crushing or chewing.4

Alcohol
Methylphenidate may impair physical coordination and cause dizziness or drowsiness.5 Alcohol may intensify these effects, increasing the risk of accidental injury. To prevent problems, people taking methylphenidate should avoid alcohol.

Summary of Interactions for Methylphenidate

Depletion or interference None known
Adverse interaction Alcohol
Side effect reduction/prevention None known
Supportive interaction None known
Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability None known

For the convenience of the reader, the information in the summary is categorized as follows: “Depletion or interference” indicates the drug may deplete or interfere with the absorption or function of the supplement or herb. “Adverse interaction” indicates that the supplement or herb used together with the drug may result in undesirable effects. “Side effect reduction/prevention” indicates the supplement or herb may reduce the likelihood and/or severity of a potential side effect caused by the drug. “Supportive interaction” indicates the supplement or herb may support or aid the function of the drug. “Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability” indicates that the supplement or herb may decrease the absorption and/or activity of the drug in the body. An asterisk (*) next to an item in the summary indicates that the interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.

References:

1. Threlkeld DS, ed. Central Nervous System Drugs, Miscellaneous Psychotherapeutic Agents, Methylphenidate HCl. In Facts and Comparisons Drug Information. St. Louis, MO: Facts and Comparisons, Feb 1997, 268t–8v.

2. Chan YP, Swanson JM, Soldin SS, et al. Methylphenidate hydrochloride given with or before breakfast: II. Effects on plasma concentration of methylphenidate and ritalinic acid. Pediatrics 1983;72:56–9.

3. Swanson JM, Sandman CA, Deutsch C, Baren M. Methylphenidate hydrochloride given with or before breakfast: I. Behavioral, cognitive, and electrophysiologic effects. Pediatrics 1983;72:49–55.

4. Threlkeld DS, ed. Central Nervous System Drugs, Miscellaneous Psychotherapeutic Agents, Methylphenidate HCl. In Facts and Comparisons Drug Information. St. Louis, MO: Facts and Comparisons, Feb 1997, 268t–8v.

5. Threlkeld DS, ed. Central Nervous System Drugs, Miscellaneous Psychotherapeutic Agents, Methylphenidate HCl. In Facts and Comparisons Drug Information. St. Louis, MO: Facts and Comparisons, Feb 1997, 268t–8v.