Psychiatry · CNS stimulant
Methylphenidate
Dose
5 mg PO BD initially; titrate weekly to 0.5–1 mg/kg/day (modified release preferred).
Use
ADHD in children and adults after specialist diagnosis.
Monitoring
Height/weight in children, BP and HR 6-monthly, tics, sleep, appetite.
Side effects
- • Appetite suppression, growth slowing
- • Insomnia
- • Tachycardia, raised BP
- • Anxiety, tics
Always confirm dose against your local formulary / BNF before prescribing.
