Dosage calculation: A child with a diagnosis of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is being treated with methylphenidate (Ritalin). The child weighs 75 lb. The usual dosage of this medication is 0.3 mg/kg/dose to 2.0 mg/kg/day, not to exceed 60 mg/day. The medication is given two times a day (BID). Answer the following:
a. How many kilograms (kg) does the child weigh?
b. How many milligrams (mg) would be given for the low dose?
c. How many milligrams (mg) would be given for the high dose?
d. Would the high dose of the medication be an appropriate dose for this child? Explain your answer.
