Drug Details


Common Brands:

Ritalin, Concerta, Metadate

Availability:

Prescription only

Therapeutic Class:

Stimulant

Forms:

Tablet, chewable tablet, oral suspension 

Administration:

By mouth

Therapeutic Uses:

  • Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
  • Narcolepsy

Controlled Status:

Schedule II controlled substance


What is methylphenidate (Ritalin)?

Methylphenidate (meh thul fee nuh dayt) is a central nervous system stimulant. It is used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. 

There may be other uses of methylphenidate - your pharmacist or healthcare provider can give you more information.

Who can take methylphenidate (Ritalin)?

Methylphenidate is approved for use in adults and children over 6 years of age.