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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Understanding A Methylphenidate Or Ritalin Addiction

Also known as Ritalin or Vitamin R, this is quite a controversial drug that is often used to treat patients who are showing symptoms of ADHD. Most of the time, this drug is prescribed to children who are of school age and can become quite addictive if it is not taken as prescribed. Unfortunately, Vitamin R or R-Balls are highly sought after by some people who are looking for a quick rush or high. If you or anyone that you know is in danger of substance abuse while taking methylphenidate, it is important that professional treatment is sought out immediately.

Some of the withdrawal symptoms that can be found when someone is trying to overcome an addiction to Ritalin will include anxiety, depression, lethargy, cravings, increased appetite and fatigue The withdrawal and detox symptoms will often resemble those that are present with other drugs including meth and cocaine.

Believe it or not, a large portion of those people who are addicted to methylphenidate will be the parents of the children who are prescribed the medication. Some will take it for what they think is a quick rush or pick me up, only to find out that they are quickly becoming addicted to the push of dopamine, the euphoria and the energy.

Since there have been many noted cases of addiction to Vitamin R, there are more and more rehab facilities that are fully prepared and equipped to deal with the proper treatment plan. As a parent, you need to make sure that you are able to get better so that you can parent properly and lead by example. While it may be difficult to admit a problem, you are going to find that there is a happier and healthier life to be had once you become completely drug free.