Ritalin (Methylphenidate) Addiction | Abuse, Side Effects, Signs, & Treatment

Ritalin is a prescription stimulant medication used to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. Ritalin, which comes as tablets, chewable tablets, and liquid, is used in both children and adults.

However, Ritalin and other ADHD medications, like Adderall (amphetamine/dextroamphetamine) are commonly abused for their euphoric and stimulant effects.

Stimulant abuse increases the risk of dependence and addiction, which may require professional treatment.

What Is Ritalin?

Ritalin, the brand name for methylphenidate, is a central nervous system stimulant that increases the neurotransmitter dopamine. High levels of dopamine can improve symptoms of ADHD, like inattention and difficulty focusing.

When Ritalin is misused, dopamine levels can be even higher, resulting in euphoric effects.

Side Effects

Ritalin may cause various side-effects, depending on the dose and frequency of use. Side-effects of Ritalin include: 

• anxiety
• trouble sleeping
• decreased appetite
• weight loss
• irritability
• nausea
• vomiting
• headache
• dry mouth
• stomach pain

As a stimulant, Ritalin can also increase blood pressure, heart rate, and breathing. If you take too much or mix it with other stimulants, you may experience a drug overdose. A stimulant overdose can cause serious health complications, including heart attack, seizure, and coma.

Ritalin Abuse

Ritalin abuse includes any type of drug use other than how it is prescribed. When Ritalin is abused, the effects can be severe and similar to cocaine and other illicit stimulants. Drug abuse increases the risk of overdose, addiction, and other health complications.

Substance abuse may include:

• taking someone else’s medication
• taking higher doses of Ritalin
• taking the medication more frequently
• crushing, snorting, or injecting Ritalin
• using Ritalin for its effects

Ritalin Dependence & Withdrawal

Frequent or heavy drug abuse can cause changes in the brain that make it difficult to stop using Ritalin. When your brain becomes dependent on stimulants, it is likely you will experience withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking it.

Symptoms of stimulant withdrawal include:

• fatigue
• depression
• anxiety
• difficulty sleeping
• intense cravings
• mood swings
• muscle aches
• trouble concentrating

Although stimulant withdrawal is not life-threatening, professional treatment can be beneficial, especially if you experience severe mental health symptoms.

In a detox program, you can recover in a safe and comfortable environment. Medical professionals monitor your symptoms around the clock and provide medication, if necessary.

Signs Of Ritalin Addiction

According to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Ritalin is a schedule II controlled substance with a high potential for dependence and addiction.

Addiction, also known as a substance use disorder (SUD), is characterized by intense cravings and an inability to control drug use.

Dependence and withdrawal symptoms are of the warning signs of addiction. However, there are several more tell-tale signs to help you determine if it’s time for you or a loved one to reach out for help.

Warning signs of stimulant addiction can include:

• isolating from friends and family
• using Ritalin, even when you don’t want to
• unable to control drug use
• loss of interest in other hobbies or activities
• drug use interferes with school, work, and relationships
• engaging in high-risk behaviors
• continued use, despite negative consequences

Ritalin Addiction Treatment

If you think you may be addicted to prescription drugs, like Ritalin, professional addiction treatment can help.

In an addiction treatment center, there are a variety of treatment options, including inpatient and outpatient treatment programs. A trained specialist can help you determine the level of care that fits your needs.

Based on your individualized treatment plan, you may have access to:

Inpatient Care

Inpatient treatment involves 24/7 supervision and a daily schedule of therapeutic activities. You may be involved with behavioral therapy, support groups, individual counseling, and wellness activities.

Outpatient Programs

Outpatient treatment offers a flexible alternative to inpatient rehab. During an intensive outpatient program (IOP) or partial hospitalization program (PHP), you will have access to a wide range of evidence-based treatment options.

Support Groups

12-step groups, like Narcotics Anonymous (NA) and Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), can connect you with peers who have similar goals and experiences. 12-step meetings can be found almost anywhere, either in-person or virtually.

Behavioral Therapy

There are currently no FDA-approved drugs to treat Ritalin addiction. However, behavioral therapy is one of the most effective methods to achieving and maintaining long-term recovery.

Behavioral therapy, which is offered at most treatment facilities, helps you learn healthy coping skills and how to identify unhealthy behaviors.

At Northeast Addictions Treatment Center, we provide a variety of outpatient treatment options for drug addiction. If you would like to learn more about our treatment options, please call our helpline today.