Ritalin Users: Know the Effects of the ADHD Med
Ritalin (Methylphenidate) is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant. It is
claimed to have a "calming" effect on many children who have ADHD [citations
needed], reducing impulsive behavior and the tendency to "act out", and helps
them concentrate on schoolwork and other tasks. Adults who have ADHD often find
that MPH increases their ability to focus on tasks and organize their
lives.
Methylphenidate has been found to have a lower incidence of
side-effects compared to dextroamphetamine, a less commonly prescribed
medication. When prescribed at the correct dosage, methylphenidate is usually
well-tolerated by patients.
The means by which methylphenidate helps
people with ADHD are not well understood. Some researchers have theorized that
ADHD is caused by a dopamine imbalance in the brains of those affected. MPH is a
dopamine reuptake inhibitor, which means that it increases the level of the
dopamine neurotransmitter in the brain by partially blocking the transporters
that remove it from the synapses.
In the United States, methylphenidate
is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance, the designation used for
substances that have a recognized medical value but which have a high potential
for abuse because of their addictive potential. Internationally, methylphenidate
is a Schedule II drug under the Convention on Psychotropic Substances. Some
people abuse MPH by crushing the tablets and snorting them, the "high" resulting
from the increased rate of dopamine transporter blockade due to quicker
absorption into the bloodstream. In this manner, the effect of Ritalin is
similar to that of cocaine or amphetamine and such abuse can lead to addiction.
When taken orally in prescribed doses, MPH has a low addiction liability and
rarely produces a "high".
Methylphenidate has been used illegally by
students for whom the drug has not been prescribed, to assist with coursework
and examinations.
If your child has been harmed by Ritalin, the drug used to treat ADHD, fill out this form to get your FREE legal consultation today from the Ritalin experts at Weitz and Luxenberg.
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see also:
Information
The information any Ritalin user should know about the ADHD drugBasic Ritalin information and background for users of the harmful med
Indications
Do you use Ritalin? Learn the IndicationsDo you need Ritalin? Read up on the drug's Indications
Learn More
When you've been hurt by Ritalin, you need a Weitz & Luxenberg lawyerLearn More about getting help from an experienced Ritalin lawyer
