Methylphenidate
Increases levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain to help improve focus and impulse control.
Dosage by Body Weight
Starts at 5 mg once or twice daily. Not recommended for children under 6 years. Monitor height and weight growth.
- Body Weight
- Over 20 kg
- Dose
- 5 mg to 10 mg
- Frequency
- Twice daily (Breakfast/Lunch)
- Tracking Notes
- Avoid late afternoon doses to prevent insomnia.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Over 20 kg | 5 mg to 10 mg | Twice daily (Breakfast/Lunch) | Avoid late afternoon doses to prevent insomnia. |
Formulation
Purpose
Central nervous system stimulant for ADHD.
Generic Name
Methylphenidate HydrochlorideBranded Drug Names
Methylphenidate is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
Yes. This medicine should be supplied or used only according to applicable prescription and regulatory requirements.
Alternatives
Safety Advice
Alcohol
UNSAFEMethylphenidate: Alcohol can worsen drowsiness, mood changes, impaired judgment, or heart rhythm effects. Avoid alcohol unless your prescriber confirms it is safe.
Pregnancy
CAUTIONMethylphenidate: Use in pregnancy only when prescribed after weighing mental health benefits and medicine-specific risks.
Breast Feeding
CAUTIONMethylphenidate: May pass into breast milk. Use while breastfeeding only with specialist guidance and infant monitoring.
Driving
CAUTIONMethylphenidate: May cause sleepiness, dizziness, slowed reaction time, or concentration changes. Avoid driving if affected.
Liver
CAUTIONMethylphenidate: Use caution in liver disease because several psychiatric or sedating medicines are processed by the liver.
Kidney
CAUTIONMethylphenidate: Kidney disease may require monitoring or dose adjustment for some medicines in this group.