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Ritalin advertisement, 1967. JAMA, the Journal of the American Medical Association, Vol. 199, No. 11, pp. 250-252. RITALIN® (methylphenidate CIBA) sparks energy ~ relieves chronic fatigue and mild depression Certainly Ritalin isn't going to make a sprinter out of the man barely able to drag himself through the day. But this gentle stimulant can spark energy -- and enthusiasm -- in the chronically fatigued, mildly depressed patient. With vitality increased and outlook brightened, the patient finds daily tasks no longer loom so large, nor do life's problems seem so serious. Unlike most antidepressants, Ritalin acts promptly -- is less likely than amphetamines to cause excessive stimulation, sudden letdown, appetite suppression, alterations in pulse rate or blood pressure. Ritalin is widely cited for its outstanding safety record; untoward effects on blood, urine, or liver and kidney function are not to be anticipated. Side effects, if they occur, are generally mild. Contraindications: Marked anxiety, tension, agitation. Contraindicated in patients with glaucoma and with epilepsy, except to combabt lethargy induced by anticonvulsant drugs. Warnings: Should not be used for severe depression (exogenous or endogenous) except in the hospital under careful supervision. Should not be used to increase mental or physical capacities beyond physiological limits. Cautions: Patients with an element of agitation may react adversely; discontinue therapy if necessary. Use cautiously with epinephrine and vasopressors and in patients with hypertension. Side effects:: Nervousness, insomnia, anorexia, nausea, dizziness, palpitation, headache, drowsiness, skin rash. Rarely, blood pressure and pulse changes, both up and down, occur. Overt psychotic behavior and psychic dependence in emotionally unstable persons have occured rarely. Dosage: Administer orally in divided doses 2 or 3 times daily, preferably 30 to 45 minutes before meals. Dosage will depend upon indication and individual response, the average range being 20 to 60 mg daily. Supplied: Ritalin® hydrochloride (methylphenidate hydrochloride CIBA) Tablets, 20 mg (peach) 10 mg (pale green) and 5 mg (pale yellow). Consult complete product literature before prescribing. CIBA Pharmaceutical Company, Summit, N.J. CIBA |