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Ritalin is a mild central nervous system stimulant that triggers the brain stem arousal system and the cerebral cortex. It increases the norepinephrine and the dopamine at the central nervous system synapses. Ritalin blocks the reuptake of dopamine. It is similar chemically and pharmacologically to the amphetamines. The generic name for Ritalin is methylphenidate. It is currently used for the treatment of Attention Deficit Disorder/Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, narcolepsy, with mild depression in the elderly and cancer patients, and to increase the action of antidepressant medication in treatment resistant depression. Recently, Ritalin has been used experimentally with stroke patients (Wright, 1997). A normal dose of methylphenidate is between fifteen and thirty milligrams per day in divided doses. The drug takes effect in half an hour to one hour; it’s effects last four to six hours with the regular tablets and up to eight hours with the extended release tablets. On-going research is confirming if the slow release or the original Ritalin is better at controlling symptoms. Ritalin must be taken on a very precise schedule to receive maximum benefits. Metabolism oc