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Methylphenidate (Ritalin)

Methylphenidate, the primary active ingredient in Ritalin, is a stimulant that is most commonly prescribed for children and young adults who suffer from Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. However, the drug has also become quite popular for use as a recreational substance or for use as a study aid.

About Ritalin

The U.S. National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) estimates that between three and five percent of all Americans suffer from ADHD, which is characterized by heightened energy levels, agitated behavior, and an inability to concentrate or focus.

Ritalin helps alleviate these symptoms by increasing the activity of the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine in areas of the brain that are involved in controlling attention and behavior.

The drug was patented in the mid-1950s, began to be prescribed for children with attention deficits in the 1960s, and experienced a significant increase in usage in the 1990s. It is classified by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) as a Schedule II substance, meaning that the drug meets the following three criteria:

  1. It has a high potential for abuse.
  2. It has a currently accepted medical use in treatment in the United States, perhaps with severe restrictions.
  3. Abuse of the drug may lead to severe psychological or physical dependence.

Trends of Abuse

The National Institute on Drug Abuse reported that the annual Monitoring the Future survey found that 2.1 percent of U.S. eighth-graders had used Ritalin for nonmedical purposes at least once in 2007, as had 2.8 percent of high school sophomores and 3.8 percent of high school seniors.

Among high school and college students, the drug is used off label as an appetite suppressant, energy booster, and as a “study drug” because of its positive effect on focus and concentration.

Health Effects

Ritalin isn’t as addictive as other stimulants such as amphetamines or cocaine, but the misuse or abuse of the drug can result in serious negative health consequences. Side effects of Ritalin abuse include the development of tremors, agitation, increased blood pressure, and a dangerously rapid heartbeat.
Heavy or long-term abuse can cause psychotic episodes including hallucinations and paranoia – and the NIMH has reported that a sudden cessation of use following prolonged exposure can result in withdrawal symptoms that include extreme fatigue and depression.

Treatment

Treatment for Ritalin abuse begins with a slow, supervised withdrawal from the drug, and is usually followed by a combination of cognitive-behavioral therapies in individual and group settings. Additional treatment methodologies include family therapy, participation in a substance abuse support group, and relapse-prevention education. Depending upon the nature of a person’s involvement with Ritalin abuse, this treatment may be provided on an outpatient basis, while hospitalized, or during a stay at a residential facility.