methylphenidate
n a drug, related to the amphetamines , that stimulates the central nervous system. Administered by mouth, it is used to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in children; side-effects such as nervousness and insomnia may occur.
Methylphenidate is used to control symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD; condition that makes it hard to pay attention, control your behavior, and remain still or quiet) and to treat narcolepsy (condition that causes people to be very sleepy during the day and to fall asleep suddenly). Methylphenidate is in a class of medications called central nervous system (CNS) stimulants. It works by changing the amounts of certain natural substances in the brain.
Full drug information on MedlinePlus →This is general information, not medical advice. Pregnancy and breastfeeding decisions should always be made with your healthcare provider.
Can taking methylphenidate affect fertility or make it harder to get pregnant?
Studies in humans have not been done to see if methylphenidate use affects fertility. Animal studies did not show harmful effects on fertility, even at doses much higher than those used in humans. Anyone with questions about fertility and this medication should discuss them with their healthcare provider.
Does taking methylphenidate increase the risk of miscarriage?
Miscarriage can occur in any pregnancy for many reasons. One small study suggested a slight increase, but most studies have not found a higher chance of miscarriage with methylphenidate use. Because many factors can contribute, it is hard to know the cause, and this is best discussed with a healthcare provider.
Does taking methylphenidate increase the risk of birth defects?
About 3 out of 100 babies are born with a birth defect for various reasons. One large database study suggested a possible increase in heart defects, but most studies, including one of about 3,000 pregnancies, have not found an increased chance of birth defects with methylphenidate. The skin patch form has not been studied in pregnancy, and individual questions should be reviewed with a healthcare provider.
Can taking methylphenidate during pregnancy cause other pregnancy-related complications?
It is not known whether methylphenidate, when taken as prescribed, increases the chance of preterm delivery or low birth weight. Some studies have reported a higher chance of high blood pressure, preeclampsia, or preterm labor, while another study did not find increased risk. Because many factors influence pregnancy outcomes, these findings should be discussed with a healthcare provider before making any changes to treatment.
Can taking methylphenidate during pregnancy affect the child's brain development, learning, or behavior?
Methylphenidate is not expected to increase the chance of behavior or learning issues in the child. Limited studies have shown typical growth in children up to one year of age and no changes in neurodevelopment after exposure during pregnancy. Long-term questions can be discussed further with a healthcare provider.
Is it safe to breastfeed while taking methylphenidate?
Methylphenidate passes into breast milk in small amounts, and when taken as prescribed it is not expected to cause problems for a nursing infant; reports of exposed infants have not shown side effects. In some women, methylphenidate can lower prolactin, which might reduce milk supply, particularly early in breastfeeding, though this has not been formally studied. Any breastfeeding questions should be reviewed with a healthcare provider.
Source: National Library of Medicine
methylphenidate