Methylphenidate for medical in-patients.
Methylphenidate (Ritalin Hydrochloride) has been recommended as a treatment for depressed medical and geriatric patients. The rationale for this treatment includes both its safety (even in patients with contra-indications that prevent the use of other antidepressants) and its quick onset of action. In addition the drug can be withdrawn after a few weeks of treatment without the danger of a recurrence of depression. The author reports having used the drug safety in depressed medically ill patients with a success rate of at least 50 percent.
D000368:Aged; D003866:Depressive Disorder / Q000188:drug therapy*; D005260:Female; D006769:Hospitals, General; D006801:Humans; D007297:Inpatients / Q000523:psychology; D008297:Male; D008774:Methylphenidate / Q000627:therapeutic use*
D008774:Methylphenidate