*An off-label use of a medication is a use that is not FDA-approved. Prescribers can decide to use a medication off-label because, in their professional judgment, they believe it may offer a benefit to someone.
Common Ritalin side effects include loss of appetite, insomnia, and nausea. Serious side effects require medical attention such as a risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors, symptoms of mania, and allergic reactions.
It’s not uncommon for people to consider stopping their medication because of side effects. If you have Ritalin side effects for more than the first few weeks, talk to your provider. They can help you understand your options. These may include a change in dosage, timing of dosage, or switching to a different medication.
If you are considering Ritalin or want to discuss your current medication treatment with a provider, online psychiatry platforms, such as Circle Medical are a good place to start. The providers on these platforms can do assessments and consult you about your prescription. They can answer any questions you have about Ritalin’s side effects and other risks.
Boxed Warning: Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Ritalin LA) – Risk of medication misuse or abuse
Methylphenidate, the active ingredient in Ritalin and Ritalin LA, has a black box warning. These are the most serious types of warnings from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Methylphenidate has a risk of misuse (abuse) which can lead to dependence on the medication.
Ritalin is a controlled substance, which means that it’s more likely to be misused or cause dependence. There are federal and state laws that limit the amount of medication that can be prescribed or dispensed within a certain period of time.
Key Takeaways
Common Ritalin side effects include loss of appetite, insomnia, and nausea. There is also a risk of serious side effects that require medical attention.
If Ritalin side effects last longer than a few weeks, your provider can help you determine next steps, which may include a change in dosage, timing of dosage, or medication.
There are several ways to cope with Ritalin side effects, including self care practices, medication adjustments, and therapy.
If you are considering Ritalin or an alternative, a good place to start is with an evaluation from a medical provider. Many online psychiatry platforms offer online assessments and medication management, such as Talkiatry or Circle Medical.
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Common Ritalin Side Effects
Ritalin can cause several common side effects affecting the heart, digestive system, and sleep. Some may require medical attention but many often improve on their own.
Ritalin also has a long-acting version called Ritalin LA which is approved to treat ADHD in children aged 6 to 12 years old. This article will focus primarily on Ritalin. If you have questions about Ritalin LA, you should talk with your prescriber.1
Common side effects of Ritalin may include:*1, 2
- Fast heartbeat
- Palpitations
- Insomnia
- Headache
- Anxiety
- Increased sweating
- Weight loss
- Decreased appetite
- Dry mouth
- Nausea
- Abdominal pain
*All medications, including Ritalin, can cause side effects that can be mild or serious. This is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects. You should talk with your doctor about any questions you have and understand the potential side effects and benefits of any medication.
Serious Ritalin Side Effects
Some side effects of Ritalin may become severe or persistent. If you experience any of the serious side effects listed below, seek immediate medical care.
Serious side effects of Ritalin that require immediate medical care include:*1, 2
- Allergic reactions include rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing
- Signs of heart problems such as chest pain
- Increased blood pressure
- Rapid heartbeat or significantly increased heart rate
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Hallucinations or other unusual sensory perceptions
- Symptoms of mania or psychosis
- Uncontrolled movements, such as twitching or uncontrollable shaking
- Painful and prolonged erections (priapism)
- Signs of circulation problems, such as numbness, discoloration, or coldness in the extremities
*All medications, including Ritalin, can cause side effects which can be mild or serious. This is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects. You should talk with your doctor about any questions you have and to understand the potential side effects and benefits of any medication.
Long-term Ritalin Side Effects
One of the potential long-term side effects of Ritalin is suppressed growth in children. This can occur with prolonged use and is due to a decreased appetite. Appetite loss is a common side effect of Ritalin for adults and children, though slowed growth caused by the medication is typically observed in children. If children taking Ritalin are not growing or gaining height or weight as expected, their treatment may need to be interrupted.
What Are the Risks & Warnings for Ritalin?
Potential for Misuse & Addiction
Ritalin has a boxed warning for potential for abuse and addiction, especially in individuals with a history of drug dependence or alcoholism. These are the most serious types of warnings from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Ritalin’s stimulant properties can lead to misuse for recreational purposes or cognitive enhancement, which may lead to severe health consequences and dependency.
Triggering Mania or Psychosis
Ritalin can exacerbate existing psychological conditions like mania or psychosis. Patients must be screened for bipolar disorder before starting Ritalin as it can worsen symptoms in bipolar patients.
Priapism (Painful Prolonged Erection)
Prolonged and painful erections (priapism) have been reported for both children and adult using Ritalin. This condition requires immediate medical attention to prevent permanent damage.
Withdrawal Symptoms
Abruptly stopping Ritalin can lead to withdrawal symptoms. These may include depressed mood, fatigue, vivid or unpleasant dreams, insomnia, increased appetite, and agitation.
Increased Blood Pressure & Heart Rate
Ritalin can cause an increase in both blood pressure and heart rate. This increase can be dangerous for those with preexisting cardiovascular conditions.
Growth Suppression in Children
Long-term use of Ritalin has been associated with weight loss and slowed growth rates in children. Your provider will carefully monitor your child’s growth patterns throughout treatment.
Allergic Reaction or Hypersensitivity
For some people taking Ritalin, an allergic reaction may occur, which may be dangerous. Patients who have previously experienced an allergic or hypersensitive reaction to methylphenidate should avoid Ritalin to prevent potentially severe allergic responses.
Severe allergic reactions to Ritalin can include:
- Breathing problems
- Swelling
- Rash/hives
If you experience wheezing, difficulty breathing, or swelling in the throat, seek immediate medical help.
Blood Pressure Crisis With MAOI Antidepressants
Combining Ritalin with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) like phenelzine can cause a severe hypertensive crisis. This condition can lead to life-threatening outcomes such as stroke, heart attack, eye complications, eclampsia, fluid build-up in the lungs, and kidney failure. Patients on MAOIs should never take Ritalin.
Drug Interactions
Taking certain medications, herbs, or supplements alongside Ritalin can change how Ritalin works in your body or increase the risk for serious side effects. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.
Substances you should avoid using while taking Ritalin include:
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOIs) antidepressants
- Antihypertensive drugs (medications used to treat high blood pressure)
- Risperidone
- Halogenated anesthetics (used with general anesthesia)
This is not a comprehensive list of medications that interact with Ritalin. Be sure to talk with your doctor or pharmacist about any prescription or over the counter medications you take, as well as supplements, herbs, and teas.
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Important Things to Know About Taking Ritalin
Before you begin taking Ritalin, it’s important to understand how it may affect you. While side effects can occur at any time while taking a medication, it’s common for them to appear during the first few weeks of treatment.
Your prescriber will discuss how to take Ritalin, your dosage, precautions and warnings, and side effects that may occur. They will also discuss what to do if side effects don’t go away on their own.
How Long Does It Take for Ritalin to Work?
It can take 30–45 minutes to feel the effects of Ritalin. This medication comes as a fast-acting formulation, which lasts in adults for about 4 hours.2 It also comes as long-acting (LA) form, Ritalin LA, which lasts up to 8 hours.1
Can Ritalin Make You Feel Worse at First?
Yes, some people starting Ritalin feel uncomfortable side effects at first. These may include a faster or more noticeable heartbeat, insomnia, and headaches.1, 2 Ritalin also has a risk of rare but serious side effects, such as circulation problems in fingers and toes causing numbness, discoloration, or feeling cold. If you experience any of these or other serious side effects, get medical help right away.
What Happens If I Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose of Ritalin, do not try to catch up by taking extra doses. Take the missed dose as soon as you remember unless it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.1, 2
Do not abruptly stop Ritalin or make a change to your dosage without discussing it first with your provider.
What Are the Side Effects of Ritalin in Children Vs. Adults?
The most notable side effects of Ritalin are experienced by adults and children alike. But there is limited research comparing the side effects of Ritalin between adults and children.2
The exception is the extended use of Ritalin has shown a risk of slowing growth and decreasing appetite in children. Ritalin is FDA-approved for children ages 6 to 17. And since adults have typically finished growing, this serious effect is mostly observed in children. While Ritalin can still cause weight loss in adults, the risk of malnutrition is greater in children.2
Who Experiences Side Effects More?
Some are more likely to experience side effects from Ritalin than others. While side effects may develop for anyone, those with certain risks should be cautious with Ritalin, possibly avoiding it.
Discuss any health conditions for yourself or your child with your physician when considering treatment. This information will help them select the most suitable medication for you.
Those with a history of certain health concerns have a higher risk of side effects, such as:
- Substance misuse or dependence
- Heart problems, including high blood pressure and abnormal heart rhythms
- Eye problems, such as glaucoma
- A higher risk of stroke
- Tics or Tourette syndrome
- Psychosis, bipolar disorder, mania, or depression
- Suicidal thoughts or behaviors
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Prior allergic reactions to Ritalin or its components
Ritalin can have harmful interactions with medications. This may include serious reactions requiring medical care or reduced effectiveness of Ritalin, the other medication, or both.
Those taking certain medications or treatments also have a higher risk of side effects, such as:
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam, Zelapar), and tranylcypromine (Parnate)
- Medications used to treat high blood pressure
- Antidepressant medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
- Other stimulant medications
- Beta blockers
- Herbs or herbal remedies, such as St. John’s wort, ginseng, and Yohimbe
This is not a complete list of possible interactions with Ritalin. Consult with your healthcare provider before combining Ritalin with any over-the-counter medications, prescription medications, or herbal supplements to ensure safety and effectiveness.
How to Cope With Common Ritalin Side Effects
Some side effects of Ritalin, such as anxiety, insomnia, and weight loss, can be managed through lifestyle changes or timing of your dose. Talk to your medical provider if you have difficulty managing these symptoms on your own or if they become severe.
Anxiety
For some, Ritalin may cause feelings of nervousness and worry. If you already have anxiety, it may make your symptoms more intense. Anxiety symptoms can be mild to moderate or severe in cases of an anxiety attack. Some symptoms include sweating, shaking, chest pain, and shortness of breath.3
You can manage anxiety caused by Ritalin with lifestyle changes. Meditation can help you relax and decrease the amount of stress you feel. Regular exercise can improve your stress levels and prevent health problems. Decreasing the amount of caffeine you consume can reduce your risk for anxiety since it is also a stimulant. Talk to your doctor if you are not able to manage these symptoms, as therapy and changes in medications can also help.3
Insomnia
Taking your dose later in the day can interfere with sleep, causing insomnia, daytime drowsiness, and problems with memory and learning.4 To reduce the risk of insomnia, take your dose earlier in the day. Ritalin LA should be taken in the morning since its effects can last for up to 8 hours.
Lifestyle changes can also help, such as reducing your screen time 1-2 hours before bed, blocking out light, avoiding laying in bed when not going to bed, and avoiding caffeine and nicotine.4
Reduced Appetite
Ritalin can cause decreased appetite, which may result in weight loss for some. If you experience this, try eating more when you do have an appetite or snack more frequently. Your appetite may be stronger in the morning before the medication begins to work or in the evening when it wears off.5
Nausea
For some, Ritalin can cause feelings of nausea. To lessen this, follow the meal timing instructions for your medication. Also, drink plenty of water and eat smaller, more frequent meals. Teas with peppermint or ginger may help, but talk with your healthcare provider first. Over-the-counter medicine, supplements, and tea may interact with Ritalin.
Headaches
Ritalin may cause headaches during the first few weeks of taking Ritalin as your body adjusts. Focus on getting rest, being physically active, and drinking plenty of water during this time. Taking an over-the-counter pain medication may help, but ask your provider if this is safe for you.
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Important Things to Know About Taking Ritalin
Before you begin taking Ritalin, it’s important to understand how it may affect you. While side effects can occur at any time while taking a medication, it’s common for them to appear during the first few weeks of treatment.
Your prescriber will discuss how to take Ritalin, your dosage, precautions and warnings, and side effects that may occur. They will also discuss what to do if side effects don’t go away on their own.
How Long Does It Take for Ritalin to Work?
It can take 30–45 minutes to feel the effects of Ritalin. This medication comes as a fast-acting formulation, which lasts in adults for about 4 hours.2 It also comes as long-acting (LA) form, Ritalin LA, which lasts up to 8 hours.1
Can Ritalin Make You Feel Worse at First?
Yes, some people starting Ritalin feel uncomfortable side effects at first. These may include a faster or more noticeable heartbeat, insomnia, and headaches.1, 2 Ritalin also has a risk of rare but serious side effects, such as circulation problems in fingers and toes causing numbness, discoloration, or feeling cold. If you experience any of these or other serious side effects, get medical help right away.
What Happens If I Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose of Ritalin, do not try to catch up by taking extra doses. Take the missed dose as soon as you remember unless it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.1, 2
Do not abruptly stop Ritalin or make a change to your dosage without discussing it first with your provider.
What Are the Side Effects of Ritalin in Children Vs. Adults?
The most notable side effects of Ritalin are experienced by adults and children alike. But there is limited research comparing the side effects of Ritalin between adults and children.2
The exception is the extended use of Ritalin has shown a risk of slowing growth and decreasing appetite in children. Ritalin is FDA-approved for children ages 6 to 17. And since adults have typically finished growing, this serious effect is mostly observed in children. While Ritalin can still cause weight loss in adults, the risk of malnutrition is greater in children.2
Who Experiences Side Effects More?
Some are more likely to experience side effects from Ritalin than others. While side effects may develop for anyone, those with certain risks should be cautious with Ritalin, possibly avoiding it.
Discuss any health conditions for yourself or your child with your physician when considering treatment. This information will help them select the most suitable medication for you.
Those with a history of certain health concerns have a higher risk of side effects, such as:
- Substance misuse or dependence
- Heart problems, including high blood pressure and abnormal heart rhythms
- Eye problems, such as glaucoma
- A higher risk of stroke
- Tics or Tourette syndrome
- Psychosis, bipolar disorder, mania, or depression
- Suicidal thoughts or behaviors
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Prior allergic reactions to Ritalin or its components
Ritalin can have harmful interactions with medications. This may include serious reactions requiring medical care or reduced effectiveness of Ritalin, the other medication, or both.
Those taking certain medications or treatments also have a higher risk of side effects, such as:
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam, Zelapar), and tranylcypromine (Parnate)
- Medications used to treat high blood pressure
- Antidepressant medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
- Other stimulant medications
- Beta blockers
- Herbs or herbal remedies, such as St. John’s wort, ginseng, and Yohimbe
This is not a complete list of possible interactions with Ritalin. Consult with your healthcare provider before combining Ritalin with any over-the-counter medications, prescription medications, or herbal supplements to ensure safety and effectiveness.
How to Cope With Common Ritalin Side Effects
Some side effects of Ritalin, such as anxiety, insomnia, and weight loss, can be managed through lifestyle changes or timing of your dose. Talk to your medical provider if you have difficulty managing these symptoms on your own or if they become severe.
Anxiety
For some, Ritalin may cause feelings of nervousness and worry. If you already have anxiety, it may make your symptoms more intense. Anxiety symptoms can be mild to moderate or severe in cases of an anxiety attack. Some symptoms include sweating, shaking, chest pain, and shortness of breath.3
You can manage anxiety caused by Ritalin with lifestyle changes. Meditation can help you relax and decrease the amount of stress you feel. Regular exercise can improve your stress levels and prevent health problems. Decreasing the amount of caffeine you consume can reduce your risk for anxiety since it is also a stimulant. Talk to your doctor if you are not able to manage these symptoms, as therapy and changes in medications can also help.3
Insomnia
Taking your dose later in the day can interfere with sleep, causing insomnia, daytime drowsiness, and problems with memory and learning.4 To reduce the risk of insomnia, take your dose earlier in the day. Ritalin LA should be taken in the morning since its effects can last for up to 8 hours.
Lifestyle changes can also help, such as reducing your screen time 1-2 hours before bed, blocking out light, avoiding laying in bed when not going to bed, and avoiding caffeine and nicotine.4
Reduced Appetite
Ritalin can cause decreased appetite, which may result in weight loss for some. If you experience this, try eating more when you do have an appetite or snack more frequently. Your appetite may be stronger in the morning before the medication begins to work or in the evening when it wears off.5
Nausea
For some, Ritalin can cause feelings of nausea. To lessen this, follow the meal timing instructions for your medication. Also, drink plenty of water and eat smaller, more frequent meals. Teas with peppermint or ginger may help, but talk with your healthcare provider first. Over-the-counter medicine, supplements, and tea may interact with Ritalin.
Headaches
Ritalin may cause headaches during the first few weeks of taking Ritalin as your body adjusts. Focus on getting rest, being physically active, and drinking plenty of water during this time. Taking an over-the-counter pain medication may help, but ask your provider if this is safe for you.
More Ways to Manage Ritalin Side Effects
Here are more ways to cope with and reduce the impact of Ritalin side effects.
Practice Good Sleep Habits
Good sleep habits can help your body rest as it adjusts to your new medication. Ritalin can disrupt sleep if you take it too late in the day, especially the long-acting form, Ritalin LA. Reduce the risk of sleep problems by taking it earlier in the day and following your provider’s instructions.
Also, try waking up and going to bed at the same time every day. Make sure your sleep environment is dark and comfortable as well. If you struggle with sleep, be cautious of doing activities that require you to be alert, such as driving.
Healthy Lifestyle Activities
Eating well, getting enough sleep, and staying physically active are essential for good overall health. They can also provide much-needed support for your body as it begins adjusting to a new medication.
Follow Your Daily Routine
It’s important to stick to your normal daily routine as much as possible while starting your new Ritalin prescription. It may not feel like your medication is working right away, or you may begin experiencing a few side effects. Keeping a predictable schedule will reduce stress on your body and mind during this transition. Also, be sure you’re following your provider’s instructions for taking your medication and take it at the same time each day.
Consider Therapy
Psychotherapy can help you develop strategies to manage the impact of side effects you experience. For in-person therapy, your primary care provider or insurance company can provide a referral. Or, family members and friends may recommend someone to you.
To find an online therapist, an online therapist directory is a great starting point. Many online psychiatry platforms, such as Talkiatry and Brightside Health, also offer therapy services.
Should I Stop Taking Ritalin If I Start Feeling Side Effects?
Do not stop taking Ritalin if you start feeling side effects. Stopping abruptly can result in withdrawal symptoms or a sudden return of your mental health symptoms. If you need to stop taking Ritalin or change your dosage, your provider will instruct you on doing this safely.2
When Should I Call My Doctor About Ritalin Side Effects?
Side effects are one of the main reasons people stop taking medication. While some side effects can be managed and may fade on their own, some do not go away unless a person stops taking the medication. Medications can cause side effects even when taken correctly.
If side effects persist or you can’t tolerate them anymore, contact your provider as soon as possible. They will advise you on your treatment options and your next steps. While serious side effects are rare when taking Ritalin, they can occur for some people. These effects often require immediate medical care and some may be life-threatening. If you notice any of the serious side effects listed above while taking Ritalin, seek medical care immediately.
When Should I Seek an Alternative to Ritalin Due to Side Effects?
After the first few weeks, Ritalin’s initial side effects usually disappear on their own. If your side effects continue and you’re considering a change in your medication, talk with your provider. There are many Ritalin alternatives available and they can help you determine which one may be a good fit. Stimulant and non-stimulant medications can help reduce ADHD symptoms, though potential risks and benefits can vary.
Stimulant medications are often the primary treatment choice for ADHD, including Adderall, Vyvanse, and Concerta. While they can be effective, these medications also come with risks to consider.
If stimulant medications aren’t a good fit, there are many non-stimulant alternatives available, including Strattera and Qelbree. These medications are thought to work by increasing levels of the norepinephrine in the brain, which may improve attention and focus.
Some antidepressants have shown to be effective ADHD treatments. Wellbutrin, Effexor XR, imipramine, and desipramine are the most widely studied antidepressants for treating ADHD symptoms.They may be helpful for those who need to avoid or can’t tolerate stimulant medications.
How to Get a Prescription for Ritalin or Alternative Medications
To receive a prescription for Ritalin or an alternative in person, your provider will first need to evaluate your symptoms.Your primary care provider, whether a physician, nurse practitioner, or PA, can get the process started and determine if a referral to a specialist is needed. Based on their assessment, they’ll decide if Ritalin or another medication should be part of your treatment plan.
To get an online prescription for a Ritalin or an alternative, the first step is getting an evaluation from a platform that prescribes stimulants. Circle Medical is an online platform that can prescribe controlled substances such as Ritalin, offering assessments and prescription management. After thoroughly reviewing them, we have determined that Circle Medical is a good place to start for an online evaluation.
Non-stimulant medications are also effective for treating ADHD symptoms and may be considered as alternatives to Ritalin. These include medications like Strattera, Qelbree, and also some antidepressants. We have carefully reviewed online psychiatry platforms such as Talkiatry and Circle Medical, which can prescribe non-stimulant medications for ADHD.
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Questions to Ask Your Provider
Your doctor, psychiatrist, or therapist can discuss possible side effects of Ritalin with you, especially those that may occur at the beginning of your treatment. Ask them whether these side effects will go away on their own and what to do if they persist or become difficult to manage.
Also, many online psychiatry services make accessing mental health care for ADHD convenient. You get a mental health evaluation, diagnosis, and personalized treatment plan. Some platforms also allow you to change providers, if needed.
Questions to ask your care team about Ritalin side effects may include:
- How long will it take for me to adjust to taking Ritalin?
- Am I at risk for more severe side effects if I am already taking medication for anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions?
- Will a previous history of addiction make me more susceptible to dependency?
- What is the best dosage to ensure fewer side effects?
- Are there drugs I am taking that could have negative interactions?
- When should I reach out to you if I am experiencing side effects?
- Is there anything I should tell my therapist about this new medication?
- What are the common side effects associated with Ritalin, and how long do they typically last?
- Are there any potentially serious or rare side effects of Ritalin that I should be aware of?
- How likely am I to experience side effects based on my specific medical history and current medications?
- Are there any specific side effects that might require immediate medical attention or discontinuation of the medication?
- Can the side effects of Ritalin interfere with my daily activities, such as work, school, or driving?
- Are there any strategies or lifestyle adjustments that can help minimize or manage the side effects of Ritalin?
- Is it possible for the side effects of Ritalin to diminish or resolve over time as my body adjusts to the medication?
- Are there any long-term or permanent side effects associated with Ritalin that I should be aware of?
- Are there any specific side effects that are more common in certain age groups or populations?
- Can Ritalin interact with any other medications or substances I am currently taking, potentially increasing the risk of side effects?
Prescriber’s Tips
Your provider will discuss important information about your Ritalin prescription with you. They will explain how to take your medication, what to avoid when taking it, and the best way to store it. They will also explain what to do about any side effects that occur. Follow these tips for safe and effective use of Ritalin.
- Take your medication as prescribed, do not change your dose or stop taking it unless your prescriber tells you to. Keeping a consistent dosing schedule reduces the chance of unwanted side effects.2
- Take your medication at the same time each day. Doing so can help you remember to take it, which will help it be as effective as possible. Your healthcare provider can determine the best time to take your medication based on how you respond to it and your sleep patterns.
- Tell your prescriber right away if you or your child have any worsening mental health symptoms. While these rarely occur, Ritalin may worsen mental health or trigger additional symptoms. These potential risks include suicidal thoughts and behaviors, symptoms of mania, and psychosis.
- Ask your doctor whether it is safe to drink alcohol while taking Ritalin.
- Tell your prescriber about all medications and supplements you take, including over-the-counter treatments. Many over-the-counter medications and supplements can interact with prescription medications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Ritalin & What Is It Used to Treat?
What Does Ritalin Do?
Ritalin is thought to work by increasing levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. These chemicals play a role in regulating attention, focus, and impulse control. For some, increasing the levels of these chemicals leads to improved attention span, focus, wakefulness, and impulsivity.
How Does Ritalin Make You Feel During the First Week?
Some people starting Ritalin may experience side effects such a faster or more noticeable heartbeat, insomnia, and headaches. 1, 2 Ritalin may also cause circulation problems in fingers and toes causing numbness, discoloration, or feeling cold. This is a rare but serious side effect that requires medical attention right away. If you experience side effects that persist or get worse, contact your provider as soon as possible.
How Long Do Ritalin Side Effects Last?
The duration of Ritalin side effects can vary. Mild side effects tend to improve after the first few weeks and often go away on their own. But when they persist or get worse, medical care is likely needed. Individual response, dosage, and overall health can affect how long Ritalin side effects may last.
What Are the Long-term Side Effects of Ritalin?
Prolonged use of Ritalin may affect growth in children. Regular monitoring of height and weight is important during treatment.
How Do the Side Effects of Ritalin and Adderall Compare?
Ritalin and Adderall are both stimulants and work in similar ways. Because of this, their side effects tend to be similar as well. Common ones include headache, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, and mood changes. Some people may also notice reduced appetite and potential weight loss. Sleep problems can occur for some, especially when taking long-acting or extended-release formulas.
Can Ritalin Affect My Sleep?
Yes, insomnia is a common side effect of Ritalin. Taking Ritalin earlier in the day can help minimize sleep problems.
Should I Stop Taking Ritalin If I Experience Side Effects?
No, do not stop taking Ritalin without being instructed to do so by your provider. Stopping Ritalin abruptly may cause withdrawal symptoms, which may include unhappy mood, tiredness, increased appetite, or agitation.
Choosing Therapy strives to provide our readers with mental health content that is accurate and actionable. We have high standards for what can be cited within our articles. Acceptable sources include government agencies, universities and colleges, scholarly journals, industry and professional associations, and other high-integrity sources of mental health journalism. Learn more by reviewing our full editorial policy.
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Ritalin LA – methylphenidate hydrochloride tablet, extended release. (December 13, 2023). Retrieved from https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/lookup.cfm
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Ritalin – methylphenidate hydrochloride tablet. (February 5, 2025). DailyMed.nlm.nih.gov. Retrieved from https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm
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Chand SP, Marwaha R. Anxiety. [Updated 2023 Apr 24]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470361/
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NIN.gov. (2022) Living With Insomnia. Retrieved from https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/insomnia/living-with
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Tefft, A. (2022). ADHD medications and your child’s appetite. Ohioline. Retrieved from https://ohioline.osu.edu/factsheet/fcs-1002
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Author: No Change
Reviewer: No Change
Primary updates: Added “Key Takeaways” feature. Edited for clarity. Condensed “What is Ritalin & How Is It Used?” and moved to FAQs. Revised and condensed “Common Side Effects of Ritalin” and “Severe Side Effects of Ritalin” sections. Removed “Mild Side Effects” section. Revised and moved content from “Allergic Reactions” and “Ritalin Warnings & Precautions” sections into new “What Are the Warnings & Risks of Ritalin?” feature. Added new sections “Important Things to Know About Taking Ritalin” and “Who Experiences Side Effects More?”. Condensed and moved What Are the Side Effects of Ritalin in Children Vs. Adults?” Revised and moved FAQ section to the end. Revised and retitled “How to Manage Side Effects” to “How to Cope With Common Ritalin Side Effects”, Added new sections “More Ways to Manage Ritalin Side Effects”, “Should I Stop Taking Ritalin If I Start Feeling Side Effects?”, “When Should I Seek an Alternative to Ritalin Due to Side Effects?”, “How to Get a Prescription for Ritalin or Alternative Medications” and all included subsections. Retitled “Questions to Ask Your Healthcare Provider About Ritalin Side Effects” to “Questions to Ask Your Provider”. Replaced “Final Thoughts” with “Prescriber’s Tips” feature. Removed “For Further Reading”.
Author: Max Ruvinov, PharmD, MBA
Medical Reviewer: Heidi Moawad, MD
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