Methylphenidate

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

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

Summary of Interactions with Vitamins, Herbs, and Foods
In some cases, a herb or supplement may appear in more than one category, which may seem contradictory. For clarification, read the full article for details about the summarized interactions.

Avoid: Adverse interaction—Avoid these supplements when taking this medication because taking them together may cause undesirable or dangerous results.	Alcohol
Depletion or interference	None known
Side effect reduction/prevention	None known
Supportive interaction	None known
Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability	None known

An asterisk (*) next to an item in the summary indicates that the interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.

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.

References
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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.

Please read the disclaimer about the limitations of the information provided here. Do NOT rely solely on the information in this article.

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The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or chemist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires March 2007.

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Interactions with Foods and Other Compounds