noun
ritalin
noun
1
The brand name (now often used generically) for methylphenidate, a stimulant medication prescribed to treat ADHD and, historically, narcolepsy.
"His doctor prescribed Ritalin to help him focus at school."
"Some students misuse Ritalin as a study aid even without a prescription."
How to Use Ritalin
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA well-known ADHD medication, chemically known as methylphenidate.
Common mistake
Don't assume all methylphenidate products are "Ritalin" — several other brand names (e.g. Concerta) use the same active ingredient in different formulations.
When to use it
Ritalin is technically a trademark; "methylphenidate" is the generic term used in clinical and legal contexts.
Common pairings
prescribed Ritalin
Ritalin dosage
take Ritalin
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His doctor prescribed _____ to help him focus at school.
Etymology
Coined in the 1940s by the Swiss chemist Leandro Panizzon, who synthesized the drug and named it after his wife Marguerite, nicknamed "Rita."