Ritalin Addiction

Ritalin is a central nervous system stimulant used in the treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).  The effects of Ritalin are similar to that of caffeine, but much stronger, but less potent than that of amphetamines.  The mechanism of action of Ritalin in the human body is not completely understood, what is known is that the drug disrupts the brain from overstimulation.

The Drug Enforcement Agency has determined Ritalin has a high abuse probability, which means the drug is highly regulated and controlled.  Ritalin should only be taken by the person it was prescribed for and should never be shared with anyone else.  The drug should also never be given to a person who has a past history of addiction to drugs or alcohol.

Symptoms of Ritalin addiction can include crushing and snorting the drug, dissolving the medication in water and injecting it or chewing up the pills to experience immediate effects.  There are many symptoms that belie an addiction to Ritalin which can include, but are not limited to the following:

• Misuse of a prescription for Ritalin.
• Taking Ritalin for non-medical reasons or taking more of the drug than allowed by prescription instructions
• Compulsive drug-seeking behavior
• Doctor shopping
• Mood swings
• Irritability
• Unexplainable euphoria and exuberance
• Anxiety
• Panic
• Potentially violent tendencies
• Restlessness
• Disorientation
• Aggression
• Psychosis

The withdrawal symptoms of Ritalin addiction are similar to that of other amphetamines, which includes:

• Fatigue
• Vivid, frightening nightmares
• Increase in appetite
• Psychomotor limitations, slowed movements, agitation, or unintentional physical movements
• Depression

There are a wide variety of treatment options available to a person suffering from a Ritalin addiction.  Some people with an addiction to Ritalin may need to go directly into psychological treatment which involves individual or group counseling and therapy which can include cognitive behavioral therapy and self-help programs.  Twelve-step meetings are another avenue that has shown to be effective in the treatment of an addiction to Ritalin.

There are also a wide variety of other modalities which can be utilized when treating an addiction to Ritalin.  There are inpatient treatment centers, as well as outpatient treatment programs, which are well equipped to assist with a Ritalin addiction.  A drug treatment facility will teach the recovery patient relapse prevention techniques, ways to get past the psychological and physical cravings for the drug and how to return to a balanced lifestyle.

An addiction to Ritalin can end up destroying lives if it is not treated effectively.  An addiction not only hurts the user but those who love them.  The first step in treating an addiction is for the user to admit the situation has grown to uncontrollable proportions and that he or she needs help.  With a strong support network and the right treatment program, a user can get help and begin the journey back to a healthy life and be free from the addiction once and for all.

If you or someone you love has an addiction to Ritalin and needs help, please contact us today for further help.

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