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My son was just diagnosed with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and started on Ritalin. I understand it's an appetite supressant and can cause insomnia. Please provide me with some information on Ritalin.
Lisa
Ritalin (generic name, methylphenidate) is a stimulant that is commonly used to treat attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). You may be asking yourself, why would we use a stimulant to treat poor attention and hyperactivity, and medical science doesn't know for sure. Although the way Ritalin works is not well understood, it is clear that this drug -- like other stimulant-type medications -- lessens the symptoms of ADHD.
Because of Ritalin's stimulant properties, certain side effects may occur in those taking the drug. These include decreased appetite, sleep disturbances and an increase in blood pressure. There has been some concern that it could impede bone growth, but recent studies show that final height is not affected in those taking the drug.
You can expect your doctor to keep an eye on your son's condition to see if Ritalin is helping decrease the symptoms of ADHD. Side effects such as poor weight gain from the appetite-suppressant effects and increased blood pressure also will be monitored. If sleep disturbances occur in your son, you should let your physician know this as well.
