Real-Life Math
You have a patient with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder
(ADHD) and are considering prescribing medication so that the child can lead
a more normal life. There are many different types of medication available,
but you decide to prescribe Ritalin.
Finding the correct medication
and the proper dosage of Ritalin -- without being excessive -- is tricky.
"I see many patients who haven't responded to treatment, so I'm constantly
trying to decide what treatment to try next," says Dr. Michael Jenike. "Often
it feels like we're pioneers in trying to figure out what to do."
Looking
at a chart, you remind yourself of the recommended dosage of Ritalin for this
patient:
Ritalin: The recommended daily dosage range for this
medication is between 10 units and 60 units per day. It should be taken 2
to 4 times per day, with each single dose between 5 and 10 units.
Part
A
If you want your patient to take 24 units of Ritalin a day, and
keep within the proper number of dosages per day, how do you coordinate his
doses? How much does he take, and how many times per day?
Part
B
If you decide to up this dose to 38 units, how many times per day
should he take the medication?