Although Ritalin 10mg is generally considered safe, there are several unpleasant side effects as well as potential longer-term medical effects. These include:

• Insomnia
• Nervousness
• Headache
• Decreased appetite
• Abdominal pain and other gastrointestinal symptoms
• Cardiovascular side effects (tachycardia and palpitations)
• Minor increases in blood pressure

Some critics of the medication’s approach to treating ADHD have argued that the risks of side effects are unacceptable, and that prescriptions of Ritalin, Adderall and other drugs are inappropriate for children particularly in the widespread fashion in which they are prescribed in the USA — when the behavior being targeted may often simply reflect a lack of suitable outlets for childhood energy rather than pathology.

Dosage

Pediatric Patients 6 years and Older

Start with 5 mg orally twice daily (before breakfast and lunch). Increase dosage gradually, in increments of 5 to 10 mg weekly. Daily dosage above 60 mg is not recommended.

Adults

Average dosage is 20 to 30 mg daily. Administer orally in divided doses 2 or 3 times daily, preferably 30 to 45 minutes before meals. Maximum total daily dosage is 60 mg. Patients who are unable to sleep if medication is taken late in the day should take the last dose before 6 p.m.
Ritalin-SR Tablets

Ritalin-SR tablets have a duration of action of approximately 8 hours. Therefore, Ritalin-SR tablets may be used in place of Ritalin tablets when the 8-hour dosage of Ritalin-SR corresponds to the titrated 8-hour dosage of Ritalin. Ritalin-SR tablets must be swallowed whole and never crushed or chewed.

Pharmacological treatment of ADHD may be needed for extended periods. Periodically re-evaluate the long-term use of Ritalin and Ritalin-SR, and adjust dosage as needed.
Dose Reduction And Discontinuation

If paradoxical worsening of symptoms or other adverse reactions occur, reduce the dosage, or, if necessary, discontinue Ritalin or Ritalin-SR. If improvement is not observed after appropriate dosage adjustment over a one-month period, the drug should be discontinued.

Interactions 

Before taking Ritalin 10mg, discuss all other active prescription medications with your doctor. Ritalin can have a dangerous, possibly fatal, interaction with antidepressants including MAOIs.

Tell your doctor if you are taking seizure medications, blood thinners, blood pressure medication, or any medication containing a decongestant.

Share a list of all vitamin or herbal supplements, and prescription and non-prescription medications you take with the pharmacist when you fill your prescription, and let all doctors and physicians know you are taking Ritalin before having any surgery or laboratory tests. Ritalin can have a dangerous interaction with certain anesthetics. The above is not a complete list of all possible drug interactions.