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.

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see also:

Side Effects Harmful ADHD drug Ritalin leads to dangerous side effects
Have you suffered from the side effects of Ritalin? Learn more here

Warnings Warnings regarding Ritalin that all users of the drug must know about
Do you use Ritalin? Make sure to know about all related warnings

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