Navigation: Ritalin Overview, Ritalin Abuse and Effects, Ritalin Addiction
Ritalin abuse and dependence rose significantly in the early 1990s after the US increased its production. Even today, Ritalin and other methylphenidates are being abused and taken in recreational settings. But this substance is especially popular among college students who take the drug because of its stimulant properties.
Statistics show that out of all college students, over 16 percent have used Ritalin and similar drugs for recreational purposes. This is due in part to the fact that the US produces around 85 percent of the global Ritalin supply.
Still, Ritalin does have its medical use. Ritalin is the leading prescription medication for children with ADHD—and approximately 5.9 million children suffer from it.
Ritalin Overview
Ritalin is a methylphenidate—a class of drugs that are considered stimulants for the central nervous system. Therefore, methylphenidates have effects that are similar to cocaine and amphetamines. They also have the same pharmacological uses.
Ritalin typically comes in the form of capsules and tablets. It is most often prescribed for children as well as adults who are struggling with ADHD or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. It is also prescribed for the treatment of narcolepsy.
When taken exactly as prescribed, Ritalin has an effect that calms people and allows them to focus on their tasks. This drug is widely considered as a safe substance as long as it is taken as intended.
Despite Ritalin’s use as a long-term prescription medication for children with ADHD, the drug is actually highly addictive. That’s why it should be taken with caution.
Ritalin Abuse and Effects
Ritalin is appealing to a lot of people because it is considered a “safe” drug. Its stimulant properties make people more alert which is why it is popular among athletes, students, and professionals. Recreational users abuse Ritalin because it helps them concentrate on what they are doing.
Recreational users often take Ritalin in large doses. This means they would usually go beyond the usual prescribed dosage. They may even crush and snort the pills to get high—but this means Ritalin is absorbed into the body a lot faster than it’s supposed to. The same goes for when people dissolve the drug and inject it directly into their bloodstream.
Just like other drugs, Ritalin can cause euphoric effects, which is one of the reasons why people can get hooked on it after abusing it for a while.
Because of its high abuse potential, Ritalin is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance under the Controlled Substances Act.
It is worth noting that the US has a higher consumption rate of Ritalin and other methylphenidates. Ritalin is very accessible. Students who have a prescription for Ritalin would sometimes sell or give their own meds to other students before an exam or simply to get high.
The effects of this drug typically last between 3 to 4 hours. Ritalin affects people with ADHD differently from people who don’t have it. People with ADHD don’t experience the increase in energy level caused by Ritalin.
People who abuse Ritalin may suffer from adverse health effects such as anxiety, chest pain, reduced appetite, confusion, nausea, vomiting, changes in blood pressure, hallucinations, paranoia, fatigue, seizures, insomnia, agitation, headaches, and panic attacks.
It can even lead to some life-threatening effects like drug overdose and respiratory depression. Ritalin may also trigger manic episodes in people with mood disorders such as bipolar disorder. The effects of Ritalin abuse may vary from one person to another.
Ritalin Addiction
When taken, Ritalin increases the levels of dopamine in the brain. And because dopamine is the chemical that activates the brain’s reward system, an overload of dopamine can be an extremely pleasant experience—which also conditions the brain to crave for more.
For people with ADHD, Ritalin blocks the dopamine transporters to keep their dopamine levels at a health level. This gives them better focus, attention, and impulse control.
For those who take Ritalin recreationally, it is much easier to develop an addiction.
Ritalin addiction is characterized by the compulsive use of the drug, even when the person is already suffering from its health effects. They will keep taking Ritalin even if they already want to quit. Addiction will likely strain their relationships and keep them from reaching their personal and professional goals.
In fact, they may lose interest in things they used to enjoy. Sometimes they will neglect their responsibilities in favor of abusing their drug of choice.
Taking Ritalin in larger amounts or for longer than prescribed may be a sign of Ritalin abuse or Ritalin addiction. Addicted individuals will spend a lot of time acquiring, using, and recovering from use of Ritalin. They may attempt to quit on their own, only to experience cravings and withdrawal, which eventually leads to relapse. There is a proper way to quit from an addictive substance, and it’s with the help of medical professionals.
If someone in the family is struggling with drug or alcohol addiction, it is important to seek help. A combination of medical detox and behavioral therapy can go a long way in the fight against substance abuse. Because every individual is affected by addiction differently, a comprehensive program tailored to their specific needs is necessary. Look for a nearby addiction treatment facility today and find out how drug treatment programs work.
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