Ritalin Addiction
Prescription drugs of all types come with caveats. You may be taking them for a specific benefit, but they usually come with several warnings. One very clear problem with Ritalin is its close relation to many dangerous street drugs such as cocaine and methamphetamines. Ritalin addiction has become widespread along with crystal meth addiction. Ritalin’s advantage is that it is legally attainable and prescribed to thousands of kids across the United States and many more across the world. Take a closer look at the problems and issues associated with Ritalin addiction today.
Ritalin Dependence and the Body
Perhaps the most surprising and alarming fact is that the human body cannot distinguish the difference between cocaine, amphetamines, and Ritalin. That means that in high enough doses or in ways that would accelerate the rush effect, Ritalin does the same thing for the body as these dangerous street drugs. Quick highs, easy addiction, and relatively easy access makes Ritalin abuse a real threat to youth today. Since it is a prescribed drug, many kids may assume that it’s OK to use it however they want. This perception can fool kids into thinking that their use is safe and that there’s little wrong with what they or their friends are doing. Unfortunately, that’s how things get dangerous.
Ritalin And Amphetamine Abuse Affect Body And Mind
Ritalin and all other amphetamines work by creating an artificial pleasure sensation. The chemicals manipulate a person’s endorphins to give them a distinct high or rush. This rush can be fairly intense when it is new to a person’s system. But as use increases, the body builds up a tolerance and the intensity slides downward. The person takes more and more of the drug to try to replicate the initial high (called “chasing the high”). At that point, nothing much matters except for getting that high.
Most other things in life pale in comparison because the body’s system has been overtaken. Normal pleasures and interests go by the wayside, even basic self care. Nutrition and hygiene go downhill, jobs and school don’t seem to matter, and an addiction lifestyle is in the works. Many kids don’t see this potential from the first time they try Ritalin recreationally. But as with any amphetamine-based drugs, misuse can easily lead to an addiction. Amphetamines have a reputation for being strongly and quickly addictive, leaving impressionable kids vulnerable to abuse and addiction.
Ritalin Has Risks And Benefits
That’s not to say the Ritalin can be a beneficial drug for those with ADD and ADHD. Likewise, many prescription pain killers can do wonders for people recovering from surgeries or dealing with chronic pain. In some cases, it may mean the difference with a person’s quality of life. However, the potential to abuse and become addicted to these medications must never be underestimated. Parents need to be sure they have complete awareness and control over their child’s Ritalin medication to be sure it doesn’t fall into the wrong hands.
Ritalin Abuse and Addiction
If your child or someone you know has fallen into a Ritalin addiction, you can still have hope. Ritalin and amphetamine treatment is available at a drug rehab center in your area. Make a phone call today and help a person you care about get their life back on track.
