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Negative Effects of Ritalin

Ritalin is a stimulant medication primarily used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), according to the National Institute for Mental Health. Both children and adults can suffer from ADHD, which is a mental illness that creates inattention, impulsive behavior and too much activity. Ritalin works with the brain chemistry to reduce these symptoms, often with success. However, there are some negative effects of Ritalin to watch out for when taking the prescription drug.

  1. Rebound Effect

    • Ritalin can have a "rebound effect" as it wears off, increasing the irritability, impulsiveness and nervous activity the drug is supposed to prevent, according to Pediatric Neurology. This can usually be handled by the doctor adjusting dosages.

    Physical Side Effects

    • Negative effects of Ritalin can include problematic physical symptoms such as headaches and stomachaches, according to Pediatric Neurology.

    Emotional Side Effects

    • In a small number of people taking Ritalin, symptoms resembling mania (too much energy and irritability) and even psychosis (hallucinations such as hearing voices) could result.

    Nervous Habits

    • Nervous habits can increase or develop in those using Ritalin as prescribed, such as muscle twitching, stuttering or skin picking.

    Sleep Problems

    • Sleep problems such as insomnia are a potential negative effect of Ritalin. However, these often resolve on their own within a few weeks of starting treatment.

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