How to Treat ADD with Ritalin
It can be tricky to treat ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) at times, since symptoms can become so severe as to become crippling. When ADD progresses this far, medication and drastic changes are usually needed. One of the medications doctors commonly use to treat ADD is Ritalin, a stimulant known to help increase focus and decrease restlessness in those taking it.
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Instructions
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Treat ADD with Ritalin
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Administer Ritalin only in the prescribed dose as provided by your doctor. The exact dosage you will be prescribed is based on your own physical condition as well as what other medications you are taking and what interactions those drugs cause.
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Take Ritalin roughly a half hour before a meal unless told otherwise by your doctor. Sometimes upset stomach or loss of appetite can occur from taking Ritalin prior to a meal, so it is also possible to take it after a meal or with just a small intake of food.
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Do not take Ritalin more often than is prescribed by your doctor. Ritalin carries with it the risk of dependence, so be sure to carefully monitor the frequency with which you take it.
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Talk to your doctor in the event that the efficacy of Ritalin changes. Some people experience a marked decrease in effectiveness when taking Ritalin for prolonged periods of time. Changing dosages or even changing medication can help to reestablish its effectiveness.
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Expect some side effects to be possible while taking Ritalin. Headaches, nausea and lightheadedness are not uncommon, as are instances of blurred vision, constipation or dry mouth. Always keep your doctor informed about the severity of side effects.
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Talk to your doctor about whether or not you are a candidate for a sleep aid or other counter-agent for Ritalin. Ritalin is known to cause restlessness and difficulty sleeping, so having something to turn to for consistent comfortable sleep is a valuable tool.
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Tips & Warnings
Ritalin is covered by most insurance providers, but if your insurance provider does not cover the drug, you may be able to purchase it in its generic form (Methylphenidate Hcl). It is less expensive, but talk to your doctor about its efficacy.
Always be vigilant of the mood and emotions of those who are taking Ritalin. Suicidal thoughts and tendencies are known to occur as a result of taking Ritalin to treat ADD, so report any warning signs to your child's health care provider immediately.
It is not currently known if Ritalin passes into breast milk, so always consult your doctor before taking Ritalin during and after pregnancy.
