Ritalin revisited: does it really help in neurological injury?
Methylphenidate (Ritalin) is a commonly used central nervous stimulant. It has been used in various neurological conditions, including attention deficit disorder, depression, and narcolepsy. Methylphenidate has been advocated in patients with traumatic brain injury and stroke for a variety of cognitive, attention, and behavioral problems. It also has been shown to speed recovery from poststroke depression so that patients can participate more fully in rehabilitation programs. Research suggests that it also may have a role in augmenting activity of injured neuronal tissue in the comatose patient, thus facilitating a return to consciousness. The neuroscience nurse plays an important role in monitoring response to Ritalin, including identifying its side effects. A review of the limited studies on the use of Ritalin, its mechanisms of action, dosing, and weaning provide a current understanding of this adjunctive agent's role in treatment for the neurological population.
Kajs-Wyllie
Marylyn
M
Neuroscience Center, St. David's Medical Center, Austin, TX, USA. marylyn.kajs-wyllie@stdavids.com
D001289:Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / Q000188:drug therapy; D001930:Brain Injuries / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000451:nursing; D001932:Brain Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy; D000697:Central Nervous System Stimulants / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000493:pharmacokinetics / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D003128:Coma / Q000188:drug therapy; D003863:Depression / Q000188:drug therapy; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008774:Methylphenidate / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000493:pharmacokinetics / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D009422:Nervous System Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000451:nursing
D000697:Central Nervous System Stimulants; D008774:Methylphenidate