How does Ritalin Work to Treat ADHD?

Ritalin is also known by its chemical name, methylphenidate. This drug is considered to be a powerful central nervous system stimulant.

It affects chemicals within the brain and nerves that are thought to contribute to hyperactivity and impulse control.

It is for this purpose that Ritalin has become one of the most well-known and used treatments for ADD and ADHD, especially in children. It is also used as a treatment for a sleep disorder known as narcolepsy (an uncontrollable desire to sleep).

Doctors have been using Ritalin since the mid-1950’s in treating conditions like depression and fatigue syndromes as well as ADD/ADHD and narcolepsy. It has been approved for most of these treatments since 1961, though recently Adderall has become a more popular prescription option.

It is also interesting to note that Ritalin has a chemical structure very similar to that of cocaine, and there is even some evidence suggesting that they function in similar fashions as well. Some researchers have raised health concerns regarding Ritalin use due to the potential for side effects as well as the addictive nature of the drug.

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Ritalin Effects:

One of the main targets of Ritalin is Dopamine. People who have many of the conditions for which this drug is used tend to have lowered levels of this powerful brain neurotransmitter.

Dopamine is used in helping people to control their behavior and mood, so restoring this chemical to its proper level is critical.

The primary method of action for Ritalin is by blocking a protein responsible for transporting Dopamine. In other words, the re-uptake (or re-absorption) of Dopamine is blocked, helping to increase its level within the brain.

There is also evidence suggesting that Ritalin works in such a way as to ‘fine tune’ the functioning of neurons in the prefrontal cortex of the brain. This is, of course, the main area of the brain involved in attention, decision-making, and impulse control.

It is also thought to affect only this area, without doing much of anything to the brain centers involved with over-arousal and addiction.

Ritalin Benefits:

The most important use or benefit of Ritalin is in the treatment of ADD and ADHD. This can be helpful for both children and adults in terms of improving attention span as well as the ability to concentrate and focus. Behavior control is also another reported benefit, along with organizing tasks and even improving listening skills.

This drug is also used in the treatment of narcolepsy. The increased neurotransmitters produced through the action of Ritalin will help to increase awareness and reduce lethargy and fatigue. Basically, the drug produces an effect equivalent to exciting or rewarding stimuli, helping the brain to stay ‘awake.’ In effect, it is modulating the brain’s reward system.

In addition to treating conditions like ADD and narcolepsy, Ritalin may also help to improve overall cognitive function. Actually, many users who have these issues will oftentimes see their cognition improve as a general side effect.

In addition to increasing the levels of Dopamine within the brain, this drug is thought to help increase the levels of Norepinephrine, which seems to work together with Dopamine in producing things like improved attention switching and motivation.

Ritalin for Weight Loss

Another interesting benefit of Ritalin is the potential ability to act as a weight loss aid. Of course, this has really only been attempted in treating obesity in the dangerously overweight. Part of how it works is that by being a general stimulant this drug increases heart rate and basal metabolic rate.

This serves to act as a natural fat burning system. Interestingly enough, Ritalin has also been shown to act as an appetite suppressant. This is also an action where Norepinephrine plays an important role, in speeding up the metabolic rate (it is closely related to Adrenaline). Of course, it is even more effective when used in combination with a comprehensive exercise and diet plan.

Ritalin Dosage:

There have been a wide range of Ritalin doses used throughout various studies and treatment options. It seems that for adults, the proper amount should be around 1 mg for each kilogram of body weight.

This means that a 198 pound (90 kg) person should take approximately 90 mg per day. Of course, it goes without saying that this is not a drug to try on your own; always consult a qualified medical professional.

There is some danger that this medication could become habit forming. Therefore, take it exactly as directed by your doctor. It should be taken at least 30 to 45 minutes before a meal in order to not interfere with its absorption.

Ritalin Side Effects:

There have been a fairly wide range of side effects reported with Ritalin. The most common of these is a fast heart beat which is typical of using Central Nervous System stimulants. However, other users have reported things like chest pain, fever, joint pain, skin rashes and/or hives, and others.

Obviously, if you develop any type of uncomfortable or painful side effect discontinue use and immediately seek medical attention and guidance.

Ritalin Review:

Ritalin is a highly potent drug that is known to be effective but is constantly shrouded in a cloud of controversy. While some smart drug users may be purchasing this drug from their friends without a prescription, it should only be taken under the direction of a qualified medical professional.

Even then, if you do receive a prescription, it would be recommended to seek out alternatives that do not have as many negative side effects. For individuals using Ritalin as a concentration and energy booster, it would be worth your while looking into the many Adderall alternatives in the nootropic category of supplements.

These compounds are known to enhance focus, alertness and wakefulness without the characteristic stimulant side effects of drugs like Ritalin.

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