Methylphenidate is the same medication that is found in Ritalin. Methylphenidate has been around for over 50 years. Despite many concerns and warnings discussed in the media, it is a safe medicine, when taken as prescribed and monitored by a physician. It also can work very well. Approximately 70-80% of people with ADD/ADHD will have significant improvement when they take this medicine.
In the US, methylphenidate also comes as: Ritalin, Ritalin LA, Concerta, Metadate CD, Focalin, Focalin XR, Daytrana, Methylin and others.
The common side effects of methylphenidate products include: decreased appetite, insomnia, worsening of tics, approx. 2% risk of slowing growth. There are rare concerns of agitation, mood symptoms, etc. [Note: This post is for educational purposes only - speak to your Doctor about side effects in detail.]
