Drugs and Alcohol Addiction is a universal problem. There are several ways to overcome it.
Ritalin Addiction
Ritalin is a powerful stimulant classified as Schedule II narcotic with the highest abuse potential and addiction profile in the United States. Closely related to the illegal drug Methamphetamine, (street name "crystal meth"), Ritalin is the brand name for a drug called methylphenidate.
Primarily used to treat the attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder known as
ADHD, it is estimated that five million children in America take daily
dose of Ritalin. Though similar to both amphetamines and cocaine,
its effects are milder and less pleasurable. However, as reports of
children snorting Ritalin, Ritalin
abuse and harmful Ritalin effects became widespread; this has
been a controversial medicine. Methylphenidate is also prescribed
for treating narcolepsy. As attention deficit-disorder prevails increasingly,
there are concerns about the possibility of the drug being overused.
Effects of Ritalin
Methylphenidate changes biochemical pathways involved in the screening of irrelevant stimuli by increasing the action of neurotransmitters known as catecholamines. Children can show improvement in ADHD symptoms while on Ritalin, but its effects last only for some hours. When compared to its advantages, the misuse leading to addiction is more harmful and alarming.
Symptoms of addiction
The most common adverse side effects of Ritalin are Nervousness and insomnia. Though rare, there were cases of it turning life-threatening. Above all, the potential for Ritalin abuse and addiction is a point parents should bear in mind before administering the drug to their children. Increasing dosages and frequent episodes of bingeing, followed by severe depression are symptoms of Ritalin abuse and addiction.
Addiction
School children who are prone to addiction or addicted to Ritalin, are found to have received the drug from people possessing physician prescriptions for Ritalin. And from these children, the drug is passed on to schoolmates and friends. They take the tablet orally, crushing the tablets into powder and snorting like cocaine. Ritalin is also injected in fluid form. Ritalin abuse is reported in college campuses also. No wonder why Ritalin is often referred to as "Kiddies Cocaine". Prolonged use of Ritalin develops brain development abnormalities similar to those found with cocaine use.
It is a good sign that many parents uncomfortable with Ritalin side effects have started choosing alternative treatments for Attention Deficit Disorder.
Call us any time toll free at 1-800-559-9503 for addiction intervention and
one of our trained counselors will ensure attention to you or your loved one.
