Ritalin
Ritalin is a central nervous system stimulant containing methylphenidate. It works by affecting chemicals in the brain and nerves that contribute to hyperactivity and impulse control, helping to increase attention and decrease restlessness.
Dosage by Body Weight
For pediatric patients (6 years and older), starting dose is typically 5 mg twice daily (before breakfast and lunch), titrating upward weekly by 5 to 10 mg. Maximum daily dose is 60 mg. For adults, the average daily dose is 20 to 30 mg administered in 2 or 3 divided doses, preferably 30 to 45 minutes before meals.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- Not routine
- Frequency
- Use only if prescribed
- Tracking Notes
- Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients under 6 years of age have not been established.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- Not routine
- Frequency
- Use only if prescribed
- Tracking Notes
- Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients under 6 years of age have not been established.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- Not routine
- Frequency
- Use only if prescribed
- Tracking Notes
- Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients under 6 years of age have not been established.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- Not routine
- Frequency
- Use only if prescribed
- Tracking Notes
- Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients under 6 years of age have not been established.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- 5 mg
- Frequency
- 1 to 2 times daily
- Tracking Notes
- Only for children aged 6 years and older. Dose should be titrated individually based on clinical response and under strict medical supervision.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | Not routine | Use only if prescribed | Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients under 6 years of age have not been established. |
| 5-7 kg | Not routine | Use only if prescribed | Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients under 6 years of age have not been established. |
| 8-10 kg | Not routine | Use only if prescribed | Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients under 6 years of age have not been established. |
| 11-15 kg | Not routine | Use only if prescribed | Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients under 6 years of age have not been established. |
| 16-20 kg | 5 mg | 1 to 2 times daily | Only for children aged 6 years and older. Dose should be titrated individually based on clinical response and under strict medical supervision. |
Formulation
TabletExtended-Release TabletExtended-Release Capsule
Purpose
Treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Narcolepsy.
Generic Name
MethylphenidateScheduled Drug
Yes. This medicine should be supplied or used only according to applicable prescription and regulatory requirements.