Unexpected interaction of methylphenidate (Ritalin) with anaesthetic agents

Paediatr Anaesth. 1997;7(1):69-72. doi: 10.1046/j.1460-9592.1997.d01-34.x.

Abstract

We report difficulty with conscious sedation of a child taking methylphenidate for attention deficit disorder and possible delayed adverse interaction of ketamine and methylphenidate resulting in severe nausea, vomiting and dehydration. The effects of methylphenidate and its potential interactions with anaesthetic agents is discussed. We suggest that anaesthesiologists who provide sedation or anaesthesia to patients receiving methylphenidate be aware of the potential need for high sedative doses and the possibility of undesirable interactions.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Anesthetics, Dissociative / adverse effects*
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / drug therapy
  • Central Nervous System Stimulants / adverse effects*
  • Child
  • Conscious Sedation
  • Drug Interactions
  • Humans
  • Hypnotics and Sedatives / adverse effects
  • Ketamine / adverse effects*
  • Male
  • Methylphenidate / adverse effects*
  • Methylphenidate / therapeutic use
  • Midazolam / adverse effects
  • Nausea / chemically induced
  • Vomiting / chemically induced

Substances

  • Anesthetics, Dissociative
  • Central Nervous System Stimulants
  • Hypnotics and Sedatives
  • Methylphenidate
  • Ketamine
  • Midazolam