The controversial and legal prescription drug Ritalin (Methylphenidate) is most commonly used to treat children and adults diagnosed with Attention Deficit Disorder. It is a stimulate that releases an increased amount of dopamine to trigger motivation and feelings of pleasure. When taken correctly, it helps individuals maintain concentration and clarity. Plus, it has a calming effect on kids with ADD. However, as a stimulant that can increase energy and positive feelings, it has become widely abused, especially by college, high school, and middle school students.
When taken as prescribed, Ritalin is not considered to be highly addictive. However, abusing the substance by using it incorrectly or without a prescription often leads to a heavy dependence. In fact, Ritalin has been referred to as a gateway drug for harder drug use. Sometimes people who abuse Ritalin turn to illicit stimulants because they are stronger or easier to obtain.
There are both mental and physical side effects associated with Ritalin abuse. These side effects vary, but are generally less dramatic than those caused by amphetamine use, yet more potent than those cause by caffeine. Short term effects can include nervousness, insomnia, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, headaches, heart palpitations, changes in blood pressure, loss of appetite, weight loss, digestive problems, skin rashes and abdominal pain. In addition, toxic psychosis or psychotic episodes may occur. Withdrawal after extended use of Ritalin usually results in extreme depression.
The effects of long term Ritalin use may additionally include paranoia, convulsions, tremors, muscle spasms, hallucinations, delusions, anxiety, and irregular heartbeat and respiration. Also, extended Ritalin use may lead to formicaton, the sensation of bugs or worms crawling under the skin. Overall, symptoms associated with Ritalin abuse can be profound and life threatening.
Usually it is a slow decrease in dose that allows Ritalin abusers to stop taking the drug once an addiction has formed. However, it is highly recommended to seek help for behavior modification with any drug addiction. There are a number of rehabilitation centers that work with Ritalin abuse cases. Plus, cognitive therapy assists in motivating people to live drug free and develop new coping skills that replace using. If you or someone you know is abusing the prescription drug Ritalin, seek professional help.
