Thursday, July 24, 2014

The Truth About Methylphenidate Abuse

 

Most people know methylphenidate by the brand name "Ritalin", which is prescribed for conditions such as ADHD. But the drug is also taken for recreational purposes, and can be called MPH, vitamin R and R-ball. This substance abuse is mostly undertaken by teens.

The drug can act as a stimulant and usually has a similar effect to speed, but it is cheaper and easier to buy illegally than most forms of amphetamine. People generally take it to create a rush of energy and euphoria, but these effects are often accompanied by less pleasant side effects and there are risks associated with the drug's use.

The short term effects commonly include problems such as:

* Suppression of appetite

* Tachycardia or heart arrhythmia

* Hyperthermia (sometimes accompanied by seizures)

* Insomnia

* Nausea

* Hallucinations

If the drug is taken on a regular basis, without the proper supervision of a medical professional, the side effects can be even more alarming. Methylphenidate can do permanent damage to blood vessels, which can trigger high blood pressure and raises the risk of death from heart attacks and stroke. It can also do irreparable damage to the lungs and kidneys.

In addition to this, there are worrying psychological issues. Users can become very depressed and start suffering from problems such as panic attacks. A percentage of drug users will also become prone to psychotic episodes, where they lose touch with reality and become delusional.

Another issue which is of great concern is that abuse of methylphenidate by teenagers is linked with increased use of other drugs. For example, a person who takes R-ball is more than ten times as likely to try heroin.

To prevent serious long term side effects, it is imperative to seek advice at an early stage. Speak to a doctor for advice if you believe somebody you know is involved in substance abuse.

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