Ritalin adverse reactions

Antacids/Acid suppressants (Ritalin LA only) Because the modified release characteristics of Ritalin LA capsules are pH dependent, the coadministration of antacids or acid suppressants could alter the release of methylphenidate. Clonidine Serious adverse reactions have been reported in concomitant use with clonidine, although no causality for the combination has been established. 

Regardless of what causes ADHD, the behavior of a person with ADHD improves in the short term after taking a stimulant drug such as Ritalin. Ritalin also improves concentration, increases attention span, and lowers the activity level both in individuals with ADHD and without. On the other hand, Ritalin may cause several adverse drug reactions, from growth inhibition to psychosis. 

The process of beginning to reassess the risks of stimulants began in June 2005, when the FDA (2005d) first gave notice that it was receiving a large number of reports of adverse psychiatric reactions, including suicidality, for methylphenidate products such as Concerta and Ritalin ... 

The FDA provided a summary of 52 adverse psychiatric reactions reported over the prior year for Concerta and Ritalin, including cases of overstimulation (agitation and mania), depression, psychosis, aggression and violence, and suicidal behavior (FDA, 2006b). Notice the similarity to the dangerous effects that the FDA previously recognized as associated with the newer antidepressants. The similarity between stimulant and antidepressant adverse effects is probably due to the stimulating effects of the newer antidepressants. 

---