Approved for hyperactive children in 1955, Ritalin is distinguished from Adderall and Dexedrine due to it being a methylphenidate and possessing a molecular structure differing from amphetamines, however, it stimulates the central nervous system and has similar effects. Ritalin is often the initial prescribed drug to treat ADHD and can come in extended-release or sustained-release forms.
Effects and Abuse of Ritalin
Ritalin enhances alertness and increases concentration, which is why many athletes, students, and working professionals abuse it. The effects of Ritalin only last 60 minutes to four hours, but many take larger doses to extend the duration of its effects.
Effects of Ritalin include:
- Hallucinations
- Chest pain
- Increase in blood pressure
- Anxiety
- Confusion
- Headaches
- Nausea and Vomiting
After consistently taking Ritalin, it essentially evolves into a learned behavior for a person. Ritalin increases dopamine levels in the brain, affecting the reward system and behavior reinforcement.
Ritalin Addiction Treatment
Treatment for someone struggling with a Ritalin addiction often depends on how long a person has used it and when they started. The younger a person has begun using Ritalin, the harder a time they will have beating an addiction to it.
However, help is available at The Discovery House in Los Angeles. Among Southern California’s best drug and alcohol centers, we offer our clients personalized addiction treatment programs at our long term treatment centers for addiction. Each staff member at our luxury rehab facilities promotes long term recovery in each phase of a program. For more information, fill out our form or call us today at 818.452.1676.