What are methylphenidate (Ritalin) side effects?

Possible negative side effects of methylphenidate are listed below. Tell your doctor if these symptoms are severe or do not subside with time.

• Fast heartbeat
• Trouble sleeping
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Sweating
• Decreased appetite
• Weight loss
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomachache
• Heartburn
• Dry mouth
• Irritability, anxiety, restlessness
• Back pain
• Muscle tightness
• Decreased libido

Some side effects of methylphenidate are more serious. Please call your doctor immediately to report negative side effects such as:

• Pounding or irregular heartbeat
• Shortness of breath
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Chest pain
• Difficulty with speech
• Excessive tiredness
• Fainting
• Seizures
• Changes in vision
• Numbness
• Agitation, paranoia, hallucinations
• Mood changes
• Painful and prolonged erections
• Fever
• Hives, rash, itching, blistering, or peeling skin

The above list may not include all the potential side effects of methylphenidate. Seek medical care if you have severe side effects or if the side effects are worsening. You can also report unusual side effects to the Food and Drug Administration at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Methylphenidate overdose: In case of an overdose, call your doctor immediately or call the poison control helpline at 1-800-222-1222. If a person cannot be awakened, has trouble breathing, has had a seizure, or has collapsed, call 911 immediately. Symptoms of methylphenidate overdose may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, blurred vision, restlessness, fainting, rapid breathing, anxiety, agitation, uncontrolled shaking, sweating, flushing, confusion, headache, fever, fast or pounding heartbeat, dry mouth, muscle weakness, and dark-colored urine. 

NOTE: Prescription medicines like methylphenidate are the property of the respective owners and intended for use only by them. Do not share your medicine with others or use other people’s prescription medicines to prevent misuse.

 Source: FDA