METHYLPHENIDATE LA (Generic for RITALIN LA)

Methylphenidate Hydrochloride 30mg, Oral capsule, biphasic release

Alcohol

· Severity: Major

· Notes for Consumers: Do not drink alcohol while taking this medication. Drinking alcohol may alter the effects of your medication. Serious side effects may occur. Contact your care team if you experience new or worsening side effects.

· Notes for Professionals: Alcohol consumption should be avoided during treatment with certain extended-release (ER) dosage forms of methylphenidate (e.g., Ritalin LA, Metadate CD). Results from an in vitro study showed that at an alcohol concentration of 40%, there was a 98% release of extended-release methylphenidate (Ritalin LA) from the 40 mg capsule in the first hour after administration. In addition, concurrent use with alcohol may exacerbate the CNS-related adverse effects of methylphenidate.

Methylphenidate Hydrochloride 30mg, Oral capsule, biphasic release

Caffeine-containing Foods/Beverages

· Severity: Moderate

· Notes for Consumers: Limit Caffeine intake (examples: coffee, teas, colas, chocolate, and some dietary supplements) while taking Methylphenidate derivatives. Also avoid non-prescription or prescription medicines containing additional caffeine whenever possible. Side effects from Methylphenidate derivatives may get worse if your Caffeine intake is too high. Taking a high amount of Caffeine can increase the risk of nausea, nervousness, palpitations, problems with sleep, rapid heartbeat, or other common side effects.

· Notes for Professionals: Caffeine is a CNS stimulant and such actions are expected to be additive when coadministered with other CNS stimulants or psychostimulants. Avoid excessive caffeine intake during use of methylphenidate derivatives. Excessive caffeine ingestion (via medicines, foods like chocolate, dietary supplements, or beverages including coffee, green tea, other teas, colas) may contribute to side effects like nervousness, irritability, nausea, insomnia, or tremor. Patients should avoid medications and dietary supplements which contain high amounts of caffeine.

<b>DISCLAIMER:</b><em> This drug information content is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Patients should always consult their physician with any questions regarding a medical condition and to obtain medical advice and treatment. Drug information is sourced from GSDD (Gold Standard Drug Database ) provided by Elsevier.</em>