Methylphenidate is also known as Ritalin, the medication is used for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Other uses for the drug include the treatment of depression, obesity, lethargy and neural insult. The medication is a power central nervous system stimulant derived from amphetamines and exerts itself by enhancing dopamine levels in the brain.

Because methylphenidate is a drug of abuse, there is a genuine potential for Ritalin addiction if the medication is crushed and snorted or when injected, the effects are almost identical to cocaine. Actually, Ritalin is more potent than cocaine and should never be viewed as a weak stimulant drug. It is popular among high school and college students who use the medication to be able to stay alert and awake for long periods of time.

There are a number of Ritalin side effects that can be attributed to Ritalin addiction. Such side effects of Ritalin include, drug addiction, dependency, appetite loss, nausea, vomiting, headaches, dizziness, nervousness, insomnia, skin rashes and itching, weight loss, abdominal pain, toxic psychosis, digestive problems and severe depression when going through drug Ritalin withdrawal.

Because Ritalin is such a highly addictive drug it is important to know the symptoms of Ritalin abuse and overdose. Such symptoms include agitation, confusion, delirium, hallucinations, high temperature (fever), enlarged pupils, flushing of the skin, muscle twitches, high blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, tremors, sweating and vomiting. If you suspect someone is suffering from a possible Ritalin overdose, prompt medical attention is recommended available at Christian drug treatment centers.

Because there are several adverse affects that can emerge with long-term use, it is necessary to watch for any type of negative effects. The most commonly experienced long term effects of Ritalin are nervousness and insomnia. Other types of reactions include pupil dilation, skin rash, fever, anorexia, nausea, dizziness, heart palpitations, blood pressure changes, abdominal pain and sudden death due to cardiotoxicity.

Ritalin, when used as prescribed and for the purpose it was intended, can be a very effective medication. However, as with any type of amphetamine-based drug, Ritalin also has a high potential for abuse. Ritalin can be very habit forming when used at higher doses and for extended periods of time. Stimulant medications like Ritalin are also referred on the street as uppers or beanies.

There are many reasons a person could have a Ritalin addiction, such as for the "high" experienced, weight loss and for better performance at tasks that require a high level of mental acuity. Because Ritalin is so popular, it is not difficult to obtain and some people use the internet to purchase Ritalin illegally.

The consequences of a Ritalin addiction can be both dangerous and devastating. Taking high doses of Ritalin can result in a person experiencing an irregular heartbeat, high body temperature and a potential for cardiovascular failure or seizures. Even short term use of some stimulants can result in a person having hostility and feelings of paranoia.

Treatment for an addiction to Ritalin is most effective when carried out in a Ritalin rehabilitation facility equipped to deal with an addiction of this nature. A person need to receive counseling, medical attention, therapy and a continued care plan tailored to fit personal needs.

If you or someone you love needs help for an addiction to Ritalin, remember there is help available from professional and reliable Christian drug rehab and alcohol treatment center. Please contact the Transformation Treatment Center admissions office today.

Transformation Treatment Center, a leading popular Christian drug treatment center also offers treatments for Opiate, Cocaine, Lortab, Ultram, Rohypnol, and other addiction problems.