Methylphenidate is used in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Researchers don't know how exactly Methylphenidate works in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder/ADHD (difficulty in paying attention and hyperactivity in children).

Headache, Insomnia (difficulty in sleeping), Abdominal pain, Nervousness

• Do not take methylphenidate if you are allergic to methylphenidate or any of the other ingredients of this medicine.
• Doctor’s advice should be considered in case of patients with following history of disease conditions: thyroid problem, heart, liver or kidney problems, high blood pressure; compromised blood supply to brain, hands and legs, or have diseases of blood vessels of such as a stroke (weakness or paralysis of part or whole of body), swelling and weakening of part of a blood vessel (aneurysm), narrow or blocked blood vessels, or inflammation of the blood vessels (vasculitis); increased pressure in your eye (glaucoma); tumor of your adrenal gland (pheochromocytoma) which leads to episodic or sustained increase in blood pressure; narrowing or blockage of your gut or food-pipe; fits (seizures, convulsions, epilepsy) or any abnormal brain scans (EEGs); other mental disease.
• Do not take methylphenidate if you have ever abused or been dependent on alcohol, prescription medicines or street drugs.
• Avoid taking methylphenidate during menstruation.
• You should not take methylphenidate on the day of your surgery if a certain type of anesthetic such as ketamine, halothane, isoflurane, sevoflurane etc. are being used.
• Do not drive or use machinery if you feel dizzy, have problems focusing or have blurred vision after taking methylphenidate.

Ques. Q. Is Methylphenidate a monoamine oxidase inhibitor/ opiate/ amphetamine?
Methylphenidate is central nervous system stimulant drug that is used in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (a behavioral disorder in children marked by poor concentration, hyperactivity, and learning difficulties). It is not monoamine oxidase inhibitor or an opiate. It is similar in function to amphetamine, but milder in nature

Ques. Q. Is Ritalin/Concerta same as Methylphenidate?
Ritalin and Concerta are proprietary (brand) names of Methylphenidate

Ques. Q. Can I take Ritalin for weight loss/ anxiety/ depression?
Ritalin (i.e. Methylphenidate) cannot be used to treat weight loss, anxiety or depression. They, on the contrary, are the side effects of the methylphenidate

Ques. Q. Does Methylphenidate keep you awake or help you focus?
Yes, Methylphenidate increases wakefulness, vigilance and attention span

Ques. Q. Does Methylphenidate make you high?
Methylphenidate has the ability to alter mood and feelings such that the effects are perceived by some as pleasant or ‘high'. Methylphenidate belongs to a sub schedule X consisting psychotropic and habit forming substances. It is available strictly as per the prescription and should always be used as advised by doctor

Ques. Q. Does Methylphenidate work like Adderall?
Both Methylphenidate and Adderall (amphetamine) are central nervous system stimulants but used for different indications (uses). Take your doctor's advice before using any medicine

Ques. Q. Does Methylphenidate expire/ go bad?
Like all other medicines, Methylphenidate expires.The expiry date is mentioned on the pill-box or strip. Methylphenidate should not be used beyond this date of expiry.