I got my blood test back, and found out that none of it was for the ADD / Bi-Polar but instead for my weight problem, but also they checked my Liver!
Doctor asked me if I had ever had my Gall Bladder removed (which I have not) and then he said I had a Fatty Liver... said that he needed follow up test on my Gall Bladder and said I would be required to go on special diet.
He did not explain to me what the issue with my liver was, so I went online and found out fatty liver means enlarged liver, and that it also involved the gall bladder. And if not taken care of could turn in to liver curiosis (sorry if spelled wrong).
Somewhere just in the last day I just read that Ritilan might have adverse action on the liver?!?
Does anyone know anything about this possibility?
Ritalin is metabolized almost exclusively by the liver (80%) and may cause some hardship to an already strained liver. From what I understand only excessive ammounts of Ritalin and abuse of the drug can cause liver damage and chirrosis. BUT have faith in your MD! He/she may have only seen minor changes in your liver and if I am understanding you right, your liver is not damaged, just enlarged. The liver is an organ that has amazing abilities to bounce back from even the most severe damage. If you doctor still feels comfortable having you on Ritalin than keep taking it! I suspect it is difficulties with your gallbladder that is affecting your liver, but definately bring your concerns to the doctor!
In the short research session that I did I found no indications to stop taking Ritalin with your kind of liver condition. Here's a page from my desktop drug guide:
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ACTION Produces CNS and respiratory stimulation with weak sympathomimetic activity. Therapeutic Effects: Increased attention span in ADHD Increased motor activity, mental alertness, and diminished fatigue in narcoleptic patients. PHARMACOKINETICSAbsorption: Well absorbed after oral administration; absorption of sustained or extended-release tablet (SR) is delayed. Metadate CD—provides initial rapid release followed by a second continuous release (biphasic release).
Distribution: Unknown.
Metabolism and Excretion: Mostly metabolized (80%) by the liver.
Half-life: 1–3 hr.
CONTRAINDICATIONS AND PRECAUTIONS
Contraindicated in: Hypersensitivity Hyperexcitable states Hyperthyroidism Patients with psychotic personalities or suicidal or homicidal tendencies Glaucoma Motor tics.
Use Cautiously in: History of cardiovascular disease Hypertension Diabetes mellitus Geriatric or debilitated patients Seizure disorders (may lower seizure threshold) Pregnancy or lactation (safety not established). ADVERSE REACTIONS AND SIDE EFFECTS*
*CAPITALS indicate life threatening; underlines indicate most frequent.
CNS: hyperactivity, insomnia, restlessness, tremor, dizziness, headache, irritability.
EENT: blurred vision.
CV: hypertension, palpitations, tachycardia, hypotension.
GI: anorexia, constipation, cramps, diarrhea, dry mouth, metallic taste, nausea, vomiting.
Derm: rashes.
Neuro: akathisia, dyskinesia.
Misc: fever, hypersensitivity reactions, physical dependence, psychological dependence, suppression of weight gain (children), tolerance.
General Info: Instruct patient to take medication exactly as directed. If a dose is missed, take the remaining doses for that day at regularly spaced intervals; do not double doses. Take the last dose before 6 PM to minimize the risk of insomnia. Instruct patient not to alter dosage without consulting health care professional. Abrupt cessation of high doses may cause extreme fatigue and mental depression.
Advise patient to notify health care professional if nervousness, insomnia, palpitations, vomiting, skin rash, or fever occurs. Inform patient that health care professional may order periodic holidays from the drug to assess progress and to decrease dependence. Emphasize the importance of routine follow-up exams to monitor progress.Copyright © 2003 by F.A. Davis Company
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Here's some more info on your condition:
http://www.merck.com/mrkshared/mmanual/section4/chapter39/39 a.jsp
Hope this helps!
lizzy38175.4635185185Thanks so much Lizzy, will wait to see what further tests and such the doctor wants to do.
I started the Ritalin and now on 2nd dose.. I am a bit at a loss as to how I am suppose to feel on this medication, or how soon I should expect results.
I can say I am suprised though, not what I was expecting, I am still not focused and memory problems persist today, my temper flared a bit earlier (thankfully the fax machine survived the ordeal - my favorite target).
I know something feels a bit kilter, but will wait, I don't feel bad (health wise) just a jittery feeling. Well this is not getting my work done - thanks for responding to my post!