Ritalin
Background of Ritalin
Ritalin is the brand name of the medication methylphenidate. Ritalin is a prescription drug that stimulates the central nervous system, and is used to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or ADHD. Ritalin has effects similar to but less potent than those of amphetamines. Ritalin is used due to its calming effect that reduces impulsive behavior. Through research and studies, it was assumed that Ritalin activates the brainstem arousal system and cortex to produce a stimulant effect.
Moreover, theories had also shown that Ritalin blocks the transporters that reuptake dopamine into the neuron that released it. By obstructing transporters, Ritalin allows more dopamine to reach receptors. This increases attention signaling and thus helps people with ADHD to focus. The stimulating effect functions as each of the excess of transporters remove dopamine from the synapse before it can reach a dopamine reward receptor in the receiving neuron.
Ritalin helps students or adults to concentrate on their tasks. Street names for Ritalin include
- rit
- diet coke
- kiddy cocaine
- r-ball
- smart drug
- poor man's cocaine
- smarties
- vitamin r
- skittles
- rids
History of Ritalin
Methylphenidate, as the generic name of Ritalin, was first studied in 1944. It was patented in 1954 by the Ciba Pharmaceutical Company, the forerunner of Novartis. Ritalin was marketed in 1957 as a treatment for depression, chronic fatigue, psychosis associated with depression, as well as narcolepsy. In 1960, Ritalin was used to treat minimal brain dysfunction, which is now known as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. The use of Ritalin increased in the United States during the 1970s and early 1980s. The medication was intended for children, although its administration has not been studied for children under 6 years of age.
The production and prescription of Ritalin increased extensively during the 1990s, as ADHD diagnosis was by then generally acknowledged within the medical and mental health communities. However, it was also used without prescription by students who needed the drug to help them concentrate and accomplish their school tasks. Ritalin is also sold in Germany, United Kingdom, Belgium, as well as in other European countries.
Contents of Ritalin
The active ingredient of Ritalin is methylphenidate hydrochloride. Furthermore, Ritalin contains inactive ingredients, specifically D&C Yellow No. 10 (for 5 mg and 20 mg tablets), FD&C Green No. 3 (for 10 mg tablets), lactose, magnesium stearate, polyethylene glycol, starch (for 5 mg and 10 mg tablets), sucrose, talc, and tragacanth (for 20 mg tablets).
Application of Ritalin
Ritalin is in tablet form and taken as a pill. Ritalin is typically white or yellow in color. Ritalin tablet comes in 5 mg, 10 mg and 20 mg. The average dosage of Ritalin for adults is 20 to 30 mg daily. The drug is usually administered in divided doses two or three times daily and preferably thirty to forty-five minutes before meals. For children who are six years of age and over, the dosage starts with 5 mg twice daily, usually before breakfast and lunch, with gradual increase of 5 mg to 10 mg weekly. However, daily dosage above 60 mg is not recommended for children and adults. Dosage should be individualized according to the needs and responses of the patient.
Side Effects of Ritalin
The effects of Ritalin are dosage-dependent. Ritalin is similar to amphetamines in the nature and duration of its effect. The side effects of Ritalin may include the following:
- abdominal pain
- agitation (high doses)
- anxiety and restlessness (high doses)
- changes in heart rate and blood pressure (usually elevation of both, but occasionally depression)
- confusion (high doses)
- delirium (high doses)
- digestive problems
- dilation of pupils (high doses)
- dilation of pupils (high doses)
- drug dependence syndrome
- dry mouth (high doses)
- euphoria
- excessive repetition of movements and meaningless tasks (high doses)
- exhilaration and excitation (high doses)
- fever and sweating (high doses)
- flushing (high doses)
- formication- the sensation of bugs or worms crawling under the skin (high doses)
- hallucinations and paranoia (high doses)
- headaches
- heightened alertness
- impairment of voluntary movement
- irregular or rapid heartbeat
- loss of appetite
- muscle twitching (high doses)
- nausea and vomiting
- nervousness and insomnia
- palpitations
- psychotic episodes
- seizures, followed by coma (high doses)
- severe depression upon withdrawal
- skin rashes and itching
- some people may experience drowsiness
- toxic psychosis
- wakefulness
- weight loss
Abuse of Ritalin
Ritalin has a high potential for abuse and is classified as a Schedule II substance under the Controlled Substance Act of the United States. Ritalin can produce both tolerance and physical addiction when used recreationally. Abuse of Ritalin may lead to severe psychological or physical dependence. Abusers of Ritalin develop tolerance to the effects they seek from the drug. They may also experience cravings for the drug and feelings of panic if the drug becomes temporarily unavailable.
Ritalin Patients Say About Malibu Horizon
The identities of the people writing these statements in support of truths about their rehabilitation have been refrained from giving to protect their inalienable right to privacy. The foregoing names are fictional names of the author’s own choosing.
"My daughter is the most precious person in my life. All I wanted was for her to be treated due to ADHD. She became addicted and I couldn’t do anything but seek professional help. I’m glad that Malibu Horizon exists in this world and I’m much happier now that my daughter is successfully rehabilitated." —Tin
"I used the drug to accomplish my coursework and other tasks as a student. I never even noticed that I’ve become addicted to it. I’m lucky that Malibu Horizon was introduced to me. They were very friendly and they provided me with the best treatment that I needed. Thank you Malibu Horizon, you’re like my second family." —Ashley
"I am a survivor of Ritalin addiction and I’m so grateful that Malibu Horizon gets in the way. My body got dependent on the drug and my parents told me that I should seek some professional help. Thank you Malibu Horizon it was such a great help." —Alphard
"It felt like I’m a changed person now. Malibu Horizon was there to give me hope! I want to thank the staff of Malibu Horizon. I salute you guys!" —Ginger