Many families prefer to seek alternative treatment instead of making their children use Ritalin (or methylphenidate with its generic name) and similar stimulants, which are prescribed by psychiatrists, for fear of being addicted. It is widely known that these drugs have cocaine-like effects when used in an amount above the dose given for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). However, there are important differences between the two items.
Is Ritalin Addictive ?
One of the factors that lead to addiction is how quickly the drug raises the amount of dopamine in the brain: The sooner it rises, the greater the potential for abuse. According to studies, it takes about 1 hour for Ritalin to increase the amount of dopamine in the brain, and seconds for cocaine. At the same time, the drug doses used for the treatment of ADHD are low and long-acting, which reduces the risk of addiction.
In fact, individuals with untreated ADHD have higher rates of substance abuse than those who use Ritalin. Untreated ADHD can cause problems such as depression, behavioral disorders, anxiety, bipolar disorder and substance abuse in the future. Substance use may be aimed directly at relieving the symptoms of ADHD or the comorbid disorders listed above. The earlier the prescription stimulant treatment is started, the lower the risk of substance abuse.
Some Warnings
As with any chemical, dose is everything with drugs like Ritalin. As long as it is taken in the prescribed dose and time, there will be no significant problems. However, many people take it with the next dose because they forgot to take the previous dose or remember it too late. This is extremely dangerous. Instead, the missed dose should be skipped and continued with the next dose.
In addition, this medicine should not be used by anyone other than those prescribed. Seizures, shortness of breath, unconsciousness, hallucinations, muscle spasms and even death may occur due to overdose if the dose is not correct.
Does Ritalin Increase the Learning Capacity of Healthy Individuals ?
It has become very popular to apply for these drugs all over the world, especially among young people preparing for the university exam. But this is a futile effort; because it is not possible for Ritalin to increase learning capacity. According to many studies, Ritalin has no effect when used by healthy individuals whose cognitive functions are already at optimal levels.
Ritalin and similar drugs already have low cognitive performance; that is, when used in individuals with ADHD, it brings the focus state to normal. The information that these increase the capacity is not true.
What Can Untreated ADHD Cause ?
People with this disorder often have impulsivity, attention problems and memory problems as a result. They also have trouble organizing and performing their duties. All these significantly affect the academic and professional life of individuals in terms of poor performance.
Difficulties such as speaking in order and reacting appropriately at the right time can also deeply shake social life. Many untreated children may experience additional problems such as low self-esteem and depression as a result. Eating disorders are also common in girls.
ADHD is a lifelong disorder for others, although symptoms may decrease/disappear with age in some patients. The problems experienced in getting a job or continuing the job due to reasons such as failure in time management and organization, not getting along with colleagues and not accepting criticism are not to be underestimated.
What Are the Side Effects of Ritalin ?
Of course, like any drug, Ritalin has certain side effects. These include tension, sleep problems, loss of appetite, weight loss, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, or headache. If these symptoms reach a disturbing level, it is necessary to consult a doctor.
Medications given to children diagnosed with ADHD are prescribed in cases where the benefit to the child outweighs the side effects, taking into account such problems and side effects. It should be used only when the psychiatrist deems it necessary; however, it is necessary not to refrain from using it even if this prescription is given.