Ritalin is most commonly known for being prescribed for those who have been diagnosed with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder or narcolepsy, which is a sleep disorder that affects thousands of people.Ritalin has similar characteristics of amphetamines though less potent. Ritalin was most commonly prescribed for children for treatment of attention deficit disorder.With it, it carries a number of side effects such as nausea, drowsiness, sleeplessness, stomach pain, headaches, tics, nervousness and irritability.There are more, less common side effects that still raise some concerns regarding its use.
A Ritalin addiction can develop when it is used in higher dosages than prescribed.It is a stimulant, like amphetamines, which gives the users the feeling of having increased energy and heart rate, mental alertness or improved concentration, as well as increases the blood pressure.Ritalin also suppresses the appetite, which can lead to weight loss and may also be a reason that one may abuse the drug.It is habit forming, as with other amphetamine type drugs.A person willfully abusing Ritalin to obtain a high, can become addicted.
Withdrawal symptoms with a Ritalin addiction will vary depending on the length, severity and amount of Ritalin used on a routine basis.Some of the symptoms may include moderate to severe depression, irritability, anxiety, fatigue, cramps, nausea, and in some cases suicidal thoughts.It is important that one get help in treating a Ritalin addiction.If your child is abusing Ritalin or suffering from a Ritalin addiction, you may want to first seek assistance with your healthcare provider.For adults who may be abusing Ritalin and have developed a Ritalin addiction, there are several detoxification and rehabilitation treatment programs that can help you begin your recovery.
Many rehabilitation treatment programs will also involve some form of therapy as part of the treatment process.An addiction to a substance such as Ritalin can involve both physical and psychological aspects and will need to be addressed to ensure that they are receiving the best possible care.It can be an emotionally trying time for some, as they may have to deal with issues that they have previously suppressed while they were taking the Ritalin.
It may be a difficult decision to seek help for an addiction, or to even take that step to help determine if you may be suffering from a Ritalin addiction.What is most important is that you do no delay in getting the help that you need.Trained professionals can help determine if you may have an issue and can help get you into a detoxification and rehabilitation treatment program.Seeking treatment sooner may help to decrease the severity of the withdrawal symptoms that one may experience with a Ritalin addiction. If you suspect that someone you know or love may be addicted, you can help to educate them and yourselves on the symptoms, effects, and other adverse reactions that may be related to the use of Ritalin.Some people may deter from abusing Ritalin or other drugs if they are educated on the adverse affects that a drug may have.
