Ritalin Dosage

The goal that we set for ourselves when we started this blogsite was to include as much information as possible about Ritalin here. We wanted this blogsite to become the place where people go to if they wish to learn more about this powerful and efficient medication that can be used for treating narcolepsy, as well as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. We wanted to cover both the good points about it, as well as those that might be considered bad, such as side effects. We wish to provide objective information and let people decide on their own if they should consider taking Ritalin for their condition. This article, however, is more of an instructional piece, as it covers the way in which Ritalin is supposed to be taken in order to achieve the best possible results.




The first thing that you need to keep in mind, and one that will be the biggest step towards a beneficial and also a safe Ritalin treatment, is to adhere to the prescription. Namely, you need to adhere to the prescribed regimen in full, concerning the dosages, the schedule of taking Ritalin, as well as to the regimen duration. If you believe that your regimen needs to be adjusted for any reason, make sure to run it past your doctor first. Do not make any changes on your own.

For instance, if you decide to take more Ritalin than prescribed, you are risking an overdose. Even if this does not happen, you are increasing the risks of experiencing side effects and harming your treatment, as well as your health. If you decide on your own to continue using Ritalin once your regimen is finished, you increase the risks of developing dependency to the drug, which may later have serious consequences in form of withdrawal symptoms that occur to people who developed dependency to Ritalin and who have ultimately stopped using it.

Ritalin comes in different forms, such as regular tablets, extended-release tablets, as well as extended-release capsules. Depending on the form of Ritalin your doctor has prescribed to you, you will need to follow certain rules about taking it properly. Discuss this with your doctor and do not hesitate to ask if you have any questions.



Ritalin tablets are supposed to be taken at least half an hour, 45 minutes prior to a meal. Otherwise, the food might interfere with the way your body absorbs the medication and you will not experience the expected benefits. Also, it would be best to avoid taking Ritalin after 6 o’clock in the afternoon as it might cause insomnia if taken then.

Furthermore, keep in mind that Ritalin may cause your reactions and/or your thinking to be impaired. If this happens, wait for this impairment to subside before you drive or do anything which will require you to be fully alert.

Another thing that you need to keep in mind is that you will most probably need to stop taking Ritalin some time prior to any surgery. You should inform the surgeon in advance about the fact you are taking Ritalin.

If you have any further questions about how to take your Ritalin, ask your doctor or your pharmacist who will be happy to help you out.