Ritalin (Methylphenidate hydrochloride) for Narcolepsy

Overview
Ritalin is a prescription drug approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. Ritalin is also referred to by its drug name, methylphenidate hydrochloride.

Ritalin is a stimulant of the phenethylamine and piperidine classes. Ritalin is believed to work by increasing the activity of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. These neurotransmitters are thought to increase attention and wakefulness, which can reduce symptoms of narcolepsy.

How do I take it?
Prescribing information states that Ritalin is taken by mouth two or three times a day.

Ritalin comes in tablet and extended-release tablet forms.

Side effects
The FDA-approved label for Ritalin lists common side effects including heart palpitations or racing pulse, headache, insomnia, anxiety, sweating, weight loss, loss of appetite, nausea, and abdominal pain.

Rare but serious side effects listed for Ritalin include serious heart problems, increased blood pressure, prolonged erections in men, circulation issues in the hands and feet, decreased growth in children, and psychiatric symptoms including psychotic or manic behavior.

For more details about this treatment, visit:

Ritalin — RxList
https://www.rxlist.com/ritalin-drug.htm