Methylphenidate is a stimulant drug with actions similar to amphetamines. It is used as an adjunct to a complete program to treat children with attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder. Methylphenidate is also used to treat people with narcolepsy.
Summary of
Interactions with Vitamins, Herbs, and Foods
(for details about the summarized interactions, read the full article)
 Avoid: Adverse interaction—Avoid these supplements
when taking this medication because taking them together may cause undesirable or dangerous
results. |
Alcohol |
| Depletion or interference |
None known |
| Side effect reduction/prevention |
None known |
| Supportive interaction |
None known |
| Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability |
None known |
An asterisk (*) next to an item in the summary indicates that the interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.
Food
Some researchers have recommended that methylphenidate be taken 30 to 45 minutes before
meals,1 although it has been reported that methylphenidate was absorbed
faster2 and was equally effective3 taken with food. Sustained-release
methylphenidate (Ritalin®-SR) tablets should be swallowed whole, without crushing or
chewing.4
Alcohol
Methylphenidate may impair physical coordination and cause dizziness or
drowsiness.5 Alcohol may intensify these effects, increasing the risk of accidental
injury. To prevent problems, people taking methylphenidate should avoid alcohol.
1. Threlkeld DS, ed. Central Nervous System Drugs, Miscellaneous Psychotherapeutic Agents, Methylphenidate HCl. In Facts and Comparisons Drug Information. St. Louis, MO: Facts and Comparisons, Feb 1997, 268t–8v.
2. Chan YP, Swanson JM, Soldin SS, et al. Methylphenidate hydrochloride given with or before breakfast: II. Effects on plasma concentration of methylphenidate and ritalinic acid. Pediatrics 1983;72:56–9.
3. Swanson JM, Sandman CA, Deutsch C, Baren M. Methylphenidate hydrochloride given with or before breakfast: I. Behavioral, cognitive, and electrophysiologic effects. Pediatrics 1983;72:49–55.
4. Threlkeld DS, ed. Central Nervous System Drugs, Miscellaneous Psychotherapeutic Agents, Methylphenidate HCl. In Facts and Comparisons Drug Information. St. Louis, MO: Facts and Comparisons, Feb 1997, 268t–8v.
5. Threlkeld DS, ed. Central Nervous System Drugs, Miscellaneous Psychotherapeutic Agents, Methylphenidate HCl. In Facts and Comparisons Drug Information. St. Louis, MO: Facts and Comparisons, Feb 1997, 268t–8v.
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The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over-the-counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires March 2005.