Expert: Dr Billy Levin - 3/15/2010

Question
Dear Doctor Levine. My life is now being ruined by worry over an incedent that happened to me. Please I beg of you to give me peace of mind so i can move on. After taking my morning dose of Ritalin I got a horrible overstimulated feeling where it actually felt like my mind was moving to fast for my environment. I looked all around the room and didnt know what to do with myself. It felt like a million thoughts shooting though my head and I got all confused and disorientated. It is very hard to explain and I know you going to just ignore me but I have spoken to my psychiatrist and he said this was a classic panic attack. I have been on Ritalin for years and have never had this before. My concern is that this is going to happen each time I take them. I actually cant believe this is happening to me. Have you heard of Ritalin causing such a horrible reaction? Please doctor I need my Ritalin.It really helps me but I just cannot shake this horrible insident.

Answer
In 36 years of involvement and having treated 23,000 cases I have never seen or heard of a reaction like this following Ritalin. Thus I am unable to comment without personally knowing you or examining you. My advice is to discuss this with your doctor as it impossible for me to assist you. This is my final comment.