The main problems why doctors are allowed to prescribe Ritalin are narcolepsy and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. This medication is one of the very frequently abused stimulants, which is why it cannot be obtained over the counter. Unlike other stimulants, when it is used in certain dosage, like, for example, in cases of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, it has a calming effect. On the other side, when taken in higher dosage, like in cases of narcolepsy, it certainly does work as a stimulant, thus helping people to stay alert and not to fall asleep during the day. One of its good sides refers to the fact that the results can be seen very quickly, particularly in cases of children who have ADHD and need to be treated. This medication is officially approved for the treatment of children, but only if they are more than six years old. However, when trying to draw a line between the positive and negative sides of this medication, the fact is that a number of those that are unwanted is much higher.
Negative sides of this medication
The good side about the bad side of this medication refers to the fact that negative aspects of Ritalin are rarely experienced because people (and children even) tolerate it well generally. However, side effects that might follow the use of this medication can be very serious and they can endanger the person’s health to a great extent. This is why it needs to be taken exactly as prescribed, always at the same time of a day, and never in the dosage that exceeds the prescribed one. Besides loss of appetite, nausea, pain in the abdomen and loss of weight, problems that can occur due to this medication are also headaches, dizziness and nervousness.
Still, these symptoms usually disappear on their own and there is no need for medical attention unless they persist for a longer period. On the other side, those problems that do require medical attention and consultations with the doctor regarding the further use of Ritalin are confusion, pain or tightness in the chest area, aggressive or strange behavior, movements of various parts of the body that cannot be controlled and restlessness. Very serious side effects are depression, loss of hair, seizures, hallucinations and suicidal thoughts, and it is important for every patient to know that they are also possible.
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