Ritalin
What is Ritalin?
Ritalin, the trade name for Methylphenidate, is a medication that stimulates the central nervous system, with effects similar to but less potent than amphetamines and more potent than caffeine. Ritalin is the most commonly prescribed psychostimulant and it affects chemicals in the brain that contribute to hyperactivity and impulse control. Ritalin produces such effects as increasing and maintaining alertness, combating fatigue, and improving attention.
Therapeutic Uses
Ritalin is commonly used to treat two separate disorders, Narcolepsy and Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Narcolepsy, a chronic sleep disorder characterized by an uncontrollable desire to sleep and sudden sleep attacks, is treated primarily with stimulants. Ritalin is effective in increasing wakefulness, vigilance, and overall performance. Ritalin is more often prescribed to treat individuals diagnosed with Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), which is characterized by a persistent pattern of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. The use of Ritalin in treating ADHD helps to improve the symptoms of ADHD as well as the self-esteem, cognition, and social and family interactions of the patient. Ritalin has a calming and focusing effect on individuals with ADHD, it also decreases impulsiveness and hyperactivity.
How does Ritalin Affect the Brain?
Ritalin is a central nervous system stimulant, similar to amphetamines in the nature and duration of its effects. Ritalin activates the brain stem arousal system and cortex. Pharmacologically, it activates the neurotransmitter dopamine, and in that respect resembles the stimulant characteristics of cocaine. Specifically Ritalin works by increasing dopamine levels in the brain. Dopamine is the neurotransmitter associated with pleasure, movement, and attention. The therapeutic effect of Ritalin is achieved by a slow and steady increase of dopamine, similar to that of the natural production by the brain.
Side Effects
Along with increases in attention, and decreases in hyperactivity and impulsiveness, Ritalin can have the following serious short-term effects: nervousness, insomnia, loss of appetite, palpitations, changes in heart rate and blood pressure, weight loss, and occasionally toxic psychosis, psychotic episodes, drug dependence syndrome, and severe depression upon withdrawal. High doses of stimulants produce a predictable set of symptoms and long-term effects that include: loss of appetite (may cause serious malnutrition), tremors, convulsions, irregular heartbeat, anxiety, restlessness, paranoia, hallucinations and delusions, and headaches.
Abuse Potential
Ritalin is a drug of abuse. Like other stimulants, Ritalin increases dopamine levels, but at the therapeutic dose the increase is slow and euphoria does not typically occur. The potential for abuse increases when Ritalin is taken in high doses, crushed and snorted, or injected, producing effects similar to cocaine. Because of its similarity to cocaine and amphetamines, Ritalin has a high potential for drug dependence and addictive abuse.
Why and How is Ritalin Abused?
Ritalin is abused for both performance enhancement and recreational purposes (to get high). Ritalin enhances performance by suppressing appetite therefore facilitating weight loss, increasing wakefulness, and increasing focus and attention.
Who Abuses Ritalin?
Ritalin abuse is often associated with younger generations, preadolescents, adolescents, and young adults. The University of Michigan indicates that 4% of high school seniors in the United States abused Ritalin at least once in the past year. Ritalin abuse is also extremely prevalent among college students, who misuse Ritalin either as a study aid or to stay awake longer.
What Adverse Effects does Ritalin Abuse have on Health?
At high doses Ritalin can lead to serious cardiovascular complications, including stroke, and repeated use of Ritalin can lead to feelings of hostility and paranoia. Addiction to Ritalin should be a concern for anyone taking it without medical supervision. If used chronically, withdrawal symptoms including fatigue, depression, and disturbed sleep patterns can emerge when Ritalin is discontinued.
What are the Risks? Is it safe to take Ritalin?
Ritalin has been proven to be a safe and effective medication when taken as directed by a doctor to treat a legitimate medical condition. Medical studies have shown that individuals who have ADHD and take Ritalin orally in proper dosages do not become addicted to the drug. Individuals who abuse Ritalin, however, risk binge use, psychotic episodes, cardiovascular complications, and severe psychological addiction.
Legal Status
In the United States, Ritalin is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance. This is the designation used for substances that have a recognized medical value, but have a high likelihood for abuse because of their addictive potential.
