Stimulant — methylphenidate
Ritalin
Also marketed as: Methylin
Methylphenidate (immediate release)
DEA Schedule II FDA approved adults
Pediatric ages 6+
How it works
Blocks reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine via DAT and NET inhibition.
At-a-glance
- Onset of effect
- 0.25–0.5 h
- Typical duration of effect
- 3–4 h
- Half-life
- ~2–3 (parent), ~3–6 (active metabolite)
- Formulations
- Oral tablet (IR), Chewable, Liquid
- Adult dose range
- 5–60 mg/day, split into 2–3 doses
FDA max: 60 mg/day - Pediatric dose range
- 5–60 mg/day depending on age
Common side effects
- Decreased appetite
- Insomnia
- Headache
- Stomach ache
Important warnings
- Schedule II
- Cardiovascular risk
Source
Reference data is sourced from the current FDA prescribing information at DailyMed. Dose ranges, approved ages, and warnings change over time — always check the current label and consult your prescriber.