Why does Ritalin make you sleepy? 

Why does Ritalin make me sleepy?

Ritalin (Methylphenidate) may cause sedation in a small number of people by making them feel relaxed. The use of Ritalin is common in the management and treatment of ADHD. 

Although it is highly unlikely to feel sleepy on Ritalin, some people may feel that way. Ritalin is a CNS stimulant and it’s actually supposed to make you feel fresh, energized, and highly productive. (1,2)

The med increases the excitatory activity in your brain, which definitely shouldn’t make you sleepy. However, people do respond differently to medications. 

Some people may feel relaxed as the drug manages the symptoms associated with ADHD. This relaxation can induce sleep in some people. However, this sleepiness shouldn’t stay for too long and it usually begins to go away as your body adjusts to the medication. 

What is the incidence of Ritalin-induced sleepiness?

The incidence of Ritalin-induced sleepiness can vary from person to person. While Ritalin is commonly used to treat conditions like attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), it can sometimes cause drowsiness as a side effect.

However, it’s important to note that not everyone experiences sleepiness when taking Ritalin, and the severity and frequency of this side effect can differ among individuals. If you are taking Ritalin and experiencing significant sleepiness, it is advisable to consult with your healthcare provider.

What to do if Ritalin makes you sleepy? 

If Ritalin causes excessive sleepiness or if it impairs your mental alertness – which is an extremely rare side effect – talk to your healthcare provider. 

Your doctor will ensure that the use of Ritalin is not causing any negative changes in your body and that it is the right choice of medication for you. 

Your doctor may recommend adjusting the dosage of Ritalin or changing the time you take it. Sometimes, taking Ritalin earlier in the day or dividing the dose into smaller amounts throughout the day can help reduce sleepiness.

It is also important to ensure you’re getting enough quality sleep at night. Stick to a regular sleep schedule, create a comfortable sleep environment, and practice good sleep habits. This can help optimize your overall wakefulness during the day.

Make sure you don’t stop using the medication halfway and talk to your doctor if you’re concerned about any of the side effects. Abrupt withdrawal of Ritalin can cause disturbing withdrawal symptoms and it should not be done without your doctor’s approval. (3)

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References

1.-

Verghese C, Abdijadid S. Methylphenidate. 2023 Jan 2. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan–. PMID: 29494058. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482451

2.-

Biederman J, Quinn D, Weiss M, Markabi S, Weidenman M, Edson K, Karlsson G, Pohlmann H, Wigal S. Efficacy and safety of Ritalin LA, a new, once daily, extended-release dosage form of methylphenidate, in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Paediatr Drugs. 2003;5(12):833-41. doi: 10.2165/00148581-200305120-00006. PMID: 14658924. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14658924/

3.-

Matthijssen AM, Dietrich A, Bierens M, Kleine Deters R, van de Loo-Neus GHH, van den Hoofdakker BJ, Buitelaar JK, Hoekstra PJ. Effects of Discontinuing Methylphenidate on Strengths and Difficulties, Quality of Life and Parenting Stress. J Child Adolesc Psychopharmacol. 2020 Apr;30(3):159-165. doi: 10.1089/cap.2019.0147. Epub 2019 Dec 24. PMID: 31880479. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31880479/