Nearly one in three American adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) report taking stimulant medication, according to 2023 data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Methylphenidate is the generic name for the active ingredient in Ritalin, and it’s also used in many other commonly prescribed stimulant medications, such as Concerta, Daytrana, and Quillivant XR, which treat symptoms of ADHD like hyperactivity, impulsivity and difficulty focusing or staying organized.
Individuals taking methylphenidate should consult a physician before drinking alcohol since the combination can cause negative reactions.
Methylphenidate and Alcohol Interactions: Masked Intoxication
Methylphenidate is a central nervous system stimulant that works by increasing levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, resulting in improved focus and impulse control. Potential side effects of this medication include nervousness, difficulty falling asleep, dizziness, weight loss, and more.
While taking any medication, it’s important to use caution when drinking alcohol, says Alex Dimitriu, M.D., a double board-certified specialist in psychiatry and sleep medicine and founder of Menlo Park Psychiatry & Sleep Medicine. Dr. Dimitriu specifically recommends limiting alcohol intake when taking methylphenidate.
“Alcohol is a sedative, while Ritalin is a stimulant. When taken together, they can work in opposing directions on the cardiovascular system and the nervous system,” notes Dr. Dimitriu. “Ritalin may mask intoxication from alcohol and result in increased consumption, which can be dangerous,” he explains.
By working opposite each other, the combination of alcohol and methylphenidate may lead to other unintended or increased side effects, such as drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired concentration.
Alcohol and Methylphenidate: Safety Tips and Considerations
According to Dr. Dimitriu, there are very few alternatives to methylphenidate that can be safely taken with alcohol, as combining any stimulant with alcohol is generally inadvisable.
For individuals who choose to drink while taking methylphenidate, Dr. Dimitriu recommends limiting alcohol intake or potentially skipping a dose on the day they might drink. However, it’s essential to consult with your doctor before adjusting any medication regimen.
Check out two more articles in our interaction series: Can I Take Melatonin with Ambien? and Can I Take Tums with Metoprolol?
