Ritalin is prescribed to treat the symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The drug has recently come to the attention of medical professionals as having a high potential of abuse by those who want to use it as a study drug. Popular on some college campuses, Ritalin and other ADHD drugs enhance alertness and make it possible for students to study for extended periods of time with a higher level of attention.
Ritalin is the brand name for mthylphenidate and is the most commonly prescribed psychostimulant. Ritalin is often used to treat children diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or ADHD, although it is also used to treat narcolepsy. Off-label versions of the drug are used to treat lethargy, depression, neural insult and obesity.
An instant-release racemic mixture, Ritalin is available in different formulations, including Ritalin SR and Ritalin LA. A potent central nervous system stimulant, Ritalin is derived from amphetamine and is believed to exert its effect by enhancing dopaminergic transmission in the brain. The medication is available in a pill that is either white, off-white or yellow with the letters CIBA imprinted on one side. It is known by its many street names, such as Rids, Pineapple, Uppers, Vitamin R. Jif and Rball.
Abuses of Ritalin
Ritalin presents a high potential for abuse. The primary source for obtaining this drug for misuse is through legitimate prescriptions. Abuse is common as a result of individuals using the drug to stay awake and it is taken orally to achieve this effect. For those seeking the euphoric effect, the drug is crushed and then ingested through intranasal and intravenous means or it is smoked.
Due to its close pharmaceutical equivalent to cocaine due to its impact on the central nervous system, many abusers use it to increase alertness, attention and energy. These benefits are usually accompanied by increases in blood pressure, heart pressure and breathing. Ritalin has also been abused for its effect on weight loss.
Effects of Ritalin
Ritalin can cause certain effects, even when it is prescribed by a physician and taken according to directions. As it is a stimulant, it can cause difficulty sleeping, a loss of appetite, irritability, nervousness, stomach aches, headaches, dry mouth, blurred vision, nausea, drowsiness and dizziness.
Whenever Ritalin is used outside of a doctor’s care, it can be habit forming and can cause a number of significant physical reactions. These reactions can include 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
Whenever Ritalin is stopped, especially after substantial and prolonged use, a dysphoric mood can develop within a few hours or even several days after the cessation of the drug or even a reduction in its application.
Withdrawal symptoms associated with Ritalin can include, but are not limited to:
• Fatigue
• Vivid, unpleasant dreams
• Insomnia or Hypersomnia
• Increased appetite
• Psychomotor retardation
Treatment of Ritalin Addiction
The treatment of a Ritalin addiction can vary depending upon the patient and the level of addiction. The first step is for a patient to be evaluated by a physician and a psychiatrist to determine the proper method for treatment. Detoxification is necessary, and the doctor may recommend 24/7 treatment.
Many treatment centers recommend a comfortable detox as the body has become accustomed to having Ritalin in its system and needs to learn how to function without the drug. In taking such an approach, a quality treatment center identifies the problems linked to the Ritalin use and abuse to increase the likelihood of a full recovery from the addiction.