ADHD & Ritalin Treatment

ADHD, which is short for attention deficit hyperactive disorder, is a fairly common behavioral condition that is characterized by impulsive behavior, hyperactivity and inattentiveness. There are several different medications commonly prescribed to help ADHD patients find relief from the troublesome symptoms. Ritalin is the most frequently prescribed ADHD medication. It is also one of the most controversial medications currently on the market. While Ritalin helps alleviate ADHD behavior, there are some serious potential side effects associated with this medicine.

Effects

• Ritalin is a brand name of methylphenidate, a non-amphetamine stimulant that was first used on hyperactive patients back in 1956. This stimulant medication has a paradoxically calming effect on ADHD individuals. Although researchers still aren't sure exactly how Ritalin works, most experts agree that the medication changes the chemical balance in the brain. Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory found that doses of methylphenidate raised the levels of dopamine, which is a neurotransmitter involved in motivation, movement, reward and pleasure. It also appears to be involved with attention and focus. Scientists at Duke University reported that Ritalin raises the levels of serotonin, another neurotransmitter associated with behaviour and activity.

Dosages

• There are two different forms of Ritalin on the market today. While both forms contain the same primary compound of methylphenidate, the vehicle of release and the duration of effects differ. The short-acting form of Ritalin provides a consistent amount of medicine, but ADHD patients must remember to take more than one pill every day. Ritalin SR is sustained release, longer-acting form of this medication. While patients might like the convenience of taking just one pill a day, many clinicians feel that Ritalin SR isn't as consistent in its effectiveness.

Possible Side Effects

• Ritalin has numerous potential side effects. The most common side effects include insomnia, decreased appetite and nervousness. Other possible side effects include headaches, irritability, mood swings, dizziness, upset stomach and restlessness. Ritalin might also cause personality changes, such as becoming listless, withdrawn or depressed. Some ADHD patients report developing obsessive-compulsive symptoms. Ritalin also can cause an increase in blood pressure levels and a quickened pulse rate during the first few weeks of usage. In rare cases, children taking Ritalin develop tics and uncontrolled vocal outbursts.

Safety Concerns

• In addition to the potential side effects listed above, there are numerous safety concerns associated with Ritalin use. The long-term effect of stimulants on the human body, particularly the brain and the cardiovascular system of children, is not yet known. Ritalin can trigger or worsen symptoms of aggression, paranoia, anxiety, hallucinations and hostility. Patients with a family history of bipolar disorder, depression or suicide are particularly at risk. There also is some concern that the use of Ritalin in children can stunt the child's growth.

Ritalin Abuse

• Ritalin abuse has increased in recent years, particularly among teenagers and college-aged kids. However, the primary abusers seem to be the non-ADHD individuals who purchase and use Ritalin illegally. Some college students take Ritalin to boost energy levels while pulling all-nighters or cramming for examinations. Others use Ritalin to lose weight. Still others like Ritalin for the high it gives non-ADHD people. Studies suggest that the dosage level of Ritalin used to treat ADHD isn't enough to become addictive.