Expert: Dr Billy Levin - 3/16/2008

Question
I am an adult taking Ritalin LA.  Several years ago, a psychiatrist, who treated a lot of children and adults with ADHD, told me caffeine with Ritalin had different effects on adults than children.  In children the caffeine acted as a stimulant; however in adults, it cancelled the effects of the Ritalin.  He told me not to take the Ritalin within 2 hours of having had caffeine (morning coffee).  This was, of course, before the long lasting and slow release.  No,  I haven't been on Ritalin all that time.

Is this true?

Thanks,
Virginia

Answer
Unfortunately, and I am sure many would agree with me, Caffeine and Ritalin are both Cerebral stimulants.Thus it is not possible for there products to have one action on children and a different one on adults. The Ritalin is much more powerful in treating ADHD. If you are on Ritalin LA, bear in mind as it's action is only approx. 8 hours, it does not cover the whole day on it's own.