Ritalin LA is one brand name for the generic medication methylphenidate. It is classified as a psycho stimulant, which is often used to treat individuals suffering from Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or ADHD, Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and to treat narcolepsy. Other brand names of methylphenidate includes Concerta, Metadate CD, Methylin, Methylin ER, Ritalin, Ritalin-SR and Daytrana.
Ritalin LA is derived from amphetamine and improves dopaminergic transmission in the brain. This medication is often called by one of its many street names, such as Rids, Pineapple, Uppers, Vitamin R. Jif and Rball.
Abuses of Ritalin LA
Ritalin LA is widely prescribed and thus offers many opportunities for abuse. Tolerance is achieved very easily with this medication, resulting in accidental addiction, even in prescribed individuals.
One common cause of abuse, especially among college students, is the use of Ritalin LA as a way to stay awake. Ritalin LA may also be used for its euphoric effects. To achieve a euphoric high, the drug is crushed and then ingested through intranasal and intravenous means. It is also sometimes smoked. The drug’s pharmaceutical similarities to cocaine make it a popular choice for non-medical uses.
Many abusers use it to increase alertness, attention and energy because it has a significant effect on the central nervous system. This abuse can lead to abuse and there is even the risk of death. The benefits sought when abusing the drug are often combated by negative effects, such as increases in blood pressure, heart pressure and breathing. Ritalin LA and its other brands have also been abused because they may assist in weight loss.
Effects of Ritalin LA
Because it is a stimulant, Ritalin LA may cause difficulty in sleeping, a loss of appetite, irritability, nervousness, stomach aches, headaches, dry mouth, blurred vision, nausea, drowsiness and dizziness.
A developed habit of taking Ritalin LA, may manifest a number of significant physical reactions, including an irregular heartbeat, dangerously high body temperatures, potential for cardiovascular failure or seizures, demonstrated hostilities, feelings of paranoia, verbal tics, uncontrolled movements and difficulty urinating.
Withdrawal of Ritalin LA
When Ritalin LA is that this medication is taken for long periods of time, it is likely that a physical or psychological dependence may develop. A dysphoric mood can develop for the individual if the use of Ritalin LA is stopped abruptly.
Withdrawal symptoms associated with Ritalin LA can include, but are not limited to:
Treatment of Ritalin LA Addiction
It is important that the individual seek medical advice of his or her physician before stopping the medication. A choice to discontinue the use of Ritalin LA without medical intervention could be dangerous, and even result in death. Users are urged to discontinue the medication gradually under the care of a board-certified physician and board-certified addiction psychiatrist trained in detoxification methods.
Admission to a treatment center for 24/7 treatment will help the individual complete a full detoxification. Once chemical imbalances are restored to a healthy level in the individual suffering with a Ritalin LA addiction, they should be issued full psychological evaluations and given medical care to combat cravings for the medication.