Dosage Information for Ritalin: Forms, Strengths, Administration, and Additional Details
Ritalin, a medication used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy, comes in two forms: immediate-release tablets (Ritalin) and extended-release capsules (Ritalin LA).
Dosage for ADHD
For children with ADHD, the recommended starting dosage is typically 5 mg taken twice per day. This dosage can be adjusted based on the child's response and any side effects. In some cases, the dosage may be increased to three times daily, with each dose spaced in the morning and afternoon.
For extended-release Ritalin LA, the starting dosage for children aged 6-12 years is 20 mg taken once per day, with a maximum dosage of 60 mg taken once per day.
Adults with ADHD usually start with a dosage of 10-25 mg once daily, depending on the formulation. Dose increases are made in increments of 10-20 mg at intervals of 5 to 7 days. The maximum recommended dosage can be as high as 60-100 mg/day, depending on the formulation, with higher doses increasing the risk of side effects.
Dosage for Narcolepsy
Methylphenidate dosing for narcolepsy is similar to ADHD and typically starts with low doses adjusted upward as needed, with maximum daily doses up to about 60 mg/day for children and adults.
Dosage Comparison
For comparison, amphetamines (such as Adderall) used in ADHD or narcolepsy have dose ranges starting typically at 5 mg once or twice daily, with maximum doses for adults often around 60 mg/day.
Important Notes
- If a child has trouble swallowing capsules, the beads can be sprinkled on a small amount of cold applesauce and swallowed right away. The applesauce mixture should not be chewed.
- Ritalin and Ritalin LA are meant to be taken as long-term treatments. The dosage prescribed can depend on factors such as the type and severity of the condition, age, and other medical conditions.
- If you miss a dose of Ritalin, take it as soon as you remember, but if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose.
- If you take more Ritalin than prescribed, call your doctor right away or call America's Poison Centers at 800-222-1222 or use its online tool. If you have severe symptoms, immediately call 911 or your local emergency number, or go to the nearest emergency room.
- If you experience any symptoms of Ritalin abuse, such as increased heart rate, sweating, or anxiety, tell your doctor right away.
- Using a medication reminder, such as setting an alarm or downloading a reminder app, can help ensure that you don't miss a dose.
- Some pharmacies offer labels with large print, braille, or a code to convert text to speech. If your local pharmacy doesn't have these options, your doctor or pharmacist might be able to recommend a pharmacy that does.
This dosage information is based primarily on recent clinical summaries and prescribing guidelines for methylphenidate formulations used to treat ADHD and narcolepsy in pediatric and adult patients. Exact dosing should always be individualized and supervised by a healthcare provider.
