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Detoxing and Withdrawing from Methylphenidate

Methylphenidate, also known as Ritalin, is typically used to treat issues such as ADHD. Methylphenidate is also used to treat narcolepsy. According to the Genetic Science and Learning Center at the University of Utah, Ritalin is the most prescribed drug for the treatment of ADHD. While ADHD is typically diagnosed among more children than adults, that does not mean methylphenidate is not habit-forming. Addiction to methylphenidate can be overcome through treatment at a methylphenidate detox and rehab center.

What is Methylphenidate?

Methylphenidate is considered a central nervous system stimulant. The drug is typically given to children and adults who suffer from attention deficit disorder, as well as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Methylphenidate is designed to help those who suffer from these disorders by changing the amount of chemicals in the brain. The intended purpose of methylphenidate is to increase concentration and help control other symptoms associated with ADD and ADHD. Certain forms of methylphenidate are also used to alleviate symptoms associated with narcolepsy.

While certain people believe only narcotic drugs are addicting, when improperly consumed in high dosages or for an extended period of time, individuals who use methylphenidate can become addicted both mentally and physically to the drug. It’s essential that you get addiction treatment for this condition right away.

Methylphenidate comes in various forms such as slow-release tablets and chewable tablets. The drug also comes in liquid form. Overtime, any form of methylphenidate may become addictive. Certain methylphenidate addicts may abuse the drug by crushing up Ritalin pills into powder and snorting it or by dissolving the pills and injecting it into the bloodstream.

Warning Signs of Addiction

People choose to abuse methylphenidate for various reasons. Certain people choose to abuse it in an effort to lose weight, while others opt to use it recreationally; however, both types of abuse come with symptoms. Typically, an individual who abuses methylphenidate may experience the following signs of addiction:

  • Appetite loss
  • Anxiety
  • Restlessness
  • Irregular heartbeat
  • Headache

“In certain cases, methylphenidate abuse can also lead to death.”In certain cases, methylphenidate abuse can also lead to death. Both children and adults who have heart defects are at an increased risk of death from methylphenidate abuse.
If you feel that you or someone you know has become addicted to methylphenidate, contacting a methylphenidate detox center can help. A detox center can help you or your loved one overcome addiction through various rehabilitation methods.

The Withdrawal Process

Methylphenidate withdrawal occurs quickly when drug is not consumed on a regular basis or if an individual does not gradually stop taking the drug. Typically, people who take the drug as directed by a healthcare professional may not experience withdrawal from the substance. However, if the drug is being abused, there is a higher chance of withdrawal occurring.
People who experience withdrawal from methylphenidate often experience symptoms such as:

  • Depression
  • Fatigue
  • Irritability
  • Increased symptoms associated with ADD or ADHD

While many people do experience withdrawal symptoms when ceasing methylphenidate use, not all people will experience the same symptoms, and certain people may not experience any at all. Many people who decide to stop using methylphenidate can get help through a methylphenidate detox program. Through a program, addicts can get the encouragement and help they need to overcome this type of addiction.


Methods of Detoxification

According to the National Institutes of Health, methylphenidate produces similar effects to cocaine, a well-known drug of abuse. Much like cocaine addicts, methylphenidate addicts may need to undergo detox and rehabilitation treatments to help overcome addiction to the drug.

rehabBefore going through a rehabilitation treatment, an addict must go through a detox period. During the detox period, the drug is completely eliminated from the body. Once the physical effects of withdrawal and physical dependence subside, the addict will then learn how to mentally cope and overcome his or her addiction. Many detox centers offer individual therapy sessions, as well as group therapy sessions in an effort to help addicts healthily overcome substance abuse problems.

In many methylphenidate detox centers, detoxing methods include gradually reducing the amount of methylphenidate consumed. By gradually easing an addict off the drug, withdrawal symptoms are less intense. The type of detox method used will depend on the detox facility as well as what is most comfortable for the patient.

Contacting a methylphenidate withdrawal treatment facility can help you find out more about the different detox and rehabilitation methods used in treating methylphenidate addiction, as well as help you choose the best method of recovery for yourself or a loved one.

Methylphenidate is extremely addictive. Whether an individual is simply dependent upon it due to extended use or due to actively abusing the drug, detox centers are designed to help those in need of overcoming the habit. If you or a loved one is abusing a form of methylphenidate, call us at for information on how to get well.

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