Classification of Methylphenidate
There are a number of unknowns for the general public associated with Ritalin. It is not known precisely how methylphenidate works on the human brain or why it is that most children and teens experience improved concentration, heightened awareness and better self-control over various ADHD symptoms. Ritalin is classified as a Schedule 2 controlled substance, indicating that methylphenidate has a high potential for becoming an addictive drug.
An example of this phenomenon is its abuse by college students in order to retain focus on studies and during classes. It is also alleged that the legal use of Ritalin can lead to a lifetime of drug abuse, particularly through the use of stimulant drugs such as cocaine.
In a study of drug abusers who were cocaine addicts it was found that the users who had been placed on methylphenidate as children for ADHD symptoms were twice as likely to become addicted to cocaine as those who were diagnosed as ADHD but were not treated with Ritalin. Generally Ritalin is abused in tablet form. The tablets are crushed into a powder and snorted, causing the type of immediate high experienced by users of cocaine and heroin.
What Is an Effective Treatment for Ritalin Abuse?
Usually it is a slow decrease that enables Ritalin abusers to stop using the drug and control addiction. This is also known as “weaning”. Another effective manner is to prescribe Ritalin in a different form. It is common to turn methylphenidate into a liquid rather than a tablet in order to decrease the high associated with snorting methylphenidate in powder form.
Healthcare providers are essential in fighting Ritalin addiction. Rehabilitation centers and the support of medical physicians, as well as friends and family, can be life-saving. There are also behavior management therapies that can assist the addict who is abusing methylphenidate. These are frequently known as behavior modification or cognitive therapies. Generally, cognitive therapies assist patients in recognizing high-risk addiction situations and learning how to avoid them. They are also key in assisting a drug addict in remaining drug free after breaking away from methylphenidate addiction.
You must log in to post a comment.