Ritalin SR
From Drug Rehab Wiki
Ritalin SR is an extended release version of Ritalin, a name brand for methylphenidate. This is one of the most commonly prescribed medications in the treatment of children diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Ritalin SR is also used to treat narcolepsy and has also been known to be effective in the treatment of lethargy, depression, neural insult and obesity.
A potent central nervous system stimulant, Ritalin SR is derived from amphetamine and is believed to exert its effect through the enhancement of dopaminergic transmission in the brain. Ritalin SR and other derivatives are commonly sold for profit on the streets and are know by many street names, such as Rids, Pineapple, Uppers, Vitamin R. Jif and Rball.
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Abuses of Ritalin SR
The use of Ritalin SR presents a high potential for abuse. Those seeking recreational use often obtain this drug for misuse through legitimate prescriptions acquired through illegitimate means. Abuse has been known to be common for individuals who are seeking ways to stay awake and it is taken orally to achieve this effect. For those seeking the euphoric effect of taking Ritalin SR, the drug is crushed and then ingested through intranasal and intravenous means or it is smoked. It is the pharmaceutical equivalent of cocaine and can have a similar impact on the central nervous system. Many abusers have used the medication to increase alertness, attention and energy, but these benefits are easily offset by increases in blood pressure, heart pressure and breathing.
Effects of Ritalin SR
Even when prescribed by a physician, Ritalin SR has been known to cause certain effects. As a stimulant, Ritalin SR can cause difficulty sleeping, a loss of appetite, irritability, nervousness, stomach aches, headaches, dry mouth, blurred vision, nausea, drowsiness and dizziness.
Ritalin SR can easily be habit forming and can cause a number of significant physical reactions. These reactions can include an irregular heartbeat, dangerously high body temperatures, potential for cardiovascular failure or seizures, demonstrated hostilities, feelings of paranoia, verbal tics, uncontrolled movements and difficulty urinating.
Withdrawal of Ritalin SR
A dysphoric mood can easily develop within a few hours or even several days after the cessation of the drug or even a reduction in its application if the individual has been taking the medication for a long period of time or in higher doses.
Withdrawal symptoms associated with Ritalin SR can include, but are not limited to:
• Fatigue
• Vivid, unpleasant dreams
• Insomnia or Hypersomnia
• Increased appetite
• Psychomotor retardation
Treatment of Ritalin SR Addiction
Addictions to Ritalin SR can be common with the ongoing use of the medication and treatment can vary depending upon the patient and the level of the individual’s addiction. Evaluation by a board-certified physician and a board-certified psychiatrist to determine the proper method for treatment is often recommended. Detoxification is necessary, and the doctor often recommends 24/7 treatment.
A comfortable detox is often applied by quality treatment centers as the body has become accustomed to having the Ritalin SR drug in its system and needs to learn how to function without it. In taking such an approach, the user and his or her physician can identify the problems linked to the Ritalin SR use and abuse to increase the likelihood of a full recovery from the addiction.
