How Ritalin – Methylphenidate works

Ritalin is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant indicated for the treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorders (ADHD) and Narcolepsy 

• Antihypertensive drugs: Monitor blood pressure. Adjust dosage of antihypertensive drug as needed
• Halogenated anesthetics: Avoid use of Ritalin or Ritalin-SR on the day of surgery if halogenated anesthetics will be used 

• Serious Cardiovascular Events: Sudden death has been reported in association with CNS stimulant treatment at usual doses in pediatric patients with structural cardiac abnormalities or other serious heart problems. In adults, sudden death, stroke, and myocardial infarction have been reported. Avoid use in patients with known structural cardiac abnormalities, cardiomyopathy, serious heart rhythm arrhythmias, or coronary artery disease
• Blood Pressure and Heart Rate Increases: Monitor blood pressure and pulse. Consider the benefits and risk in patients for whom an increase in blood pressure or heart rate would be problematic 
• Psychiatric Adverse Reactions: Use of stimulants may cause psychotic or manic symptoms in patients with no prior history or exacerbation of symptoms in patients with preexisting psychiatric illness. Evaluate for preexisting psychotic or bipolar disorder prior to Ritalin and Ritalin-SR use
• Priapism: Cases of painful and prolonged penile erections and priapism have been reported with methylphenidate products. Immediate medical attention should be sought if signs or symptoms of prolonged penile erections or priapism are observed
• Peripheral Vasculopathy, including Raynaud’s Phenomenon: Stimulants used to treat ADHD are associated with peripheral vasculopathy, including Raynaud’s phenomenon. Careful observation for digital changes is necessary during treatment with ADHD stimulants
• Long-Term Suppression of Growth: Monitor height and weight at appropriate intervals in pediatric patients