Ritalin :: essays research papers

methylphenidateAbstract     Ritalin (Methylphenidate) is a mild CNS stimulant. In medicine,Ritalins primary use is treatment of Attention Deficit /Hyperactive trouble oneself(ADHD). The mode of action in humans is not completely understood, provided Ritalinpresumably activates the arousal system of the brain stem and the rational cortex toproduce its stimulant effect. Recently, the frequency of diagnosis for ADHD hasincreased dramatically. more children and an increasing number of adults arebeing diagnosed with ADHD. According to the Drug Enforcement internal representation (DEA)(Bailey 1995), prescriptions for Ritalin have increased more than 600% in thepast tailfin years. Ritalin has a long history of controversy regarding sidesomebodyal effects and potential for abuse, however it greatly benefits those with ADHD.Psychological effects of RitalinRitalin (Methylphenidate) is manufactured by CIBA-Geigy Corporation. Itis supplied in 5 mg., 10 mg., and 20 mg. tablets, and in a sustained releaseform, Ritalin SR, in 20 mg. tablets. It is readily water soluble and is intendedfor oral use. It is a Schedule II Controlled Substance under both the Federaland Vermont Controlled Substance Acts. Ritalin is chiefly used in thetreatment of Attention Deficit/Hyperactive distract (ADHD) (Bailey 1995).ADHD is a condition most likely based in an inefficiency and inadequacyof Dopamine and Norepinephrine hormone avail force, typically occurring when aperson with ADHD tries to concentrate. Ritalin improves the efficiency of thehormones Dopamine and Norepinephrine, increasing the resources for memory, focus,concentration and perplexity (Clark 1996).Ritalin has been used for more than 30 years to treat ADHD. nervesand insomnia are the most common adverse reactions reported, but are commonlycontrolled by reducing dosage or omitting the afternoon or evening dose.Decreased appetite is also common but usually short (Long 1996).According to Clark (1996), children, adolescents and adults diagnosed with ADHDusually report the following effects when success in full treated with RitalinImproved concentration.Better "focus".Improved ability to complete their work.Improved intensity of attention and longer attention span. cut distractibility.Reduced impulsivity.Reduced restlessness and over drill.Improved patience.More elaborate communicative vocabulary.Better written expression and handwriting (especially in children).An improved reason of "alertness".Improved memory for visual as well as auditory stimuli.Ritalins Effect on Neurotransmitter SystemsRitalin exhibits pharmacological activity standardized to that ofamphetamines. Ritalins exact mechanism of action in the CNS is not fullyunderstood, but the primary sites of activity appear to be in the cerebralcortex and the subcortical structures including the thalamus. Ritalin blocks thereuptake mechanism present in dopaminergic neurons. As a result, sympathomimeticactivit y in the central neuronal system and in the peripheral nervous systemincreases. Ritalin-induced CNS comment produces a decreased sense of fatigue,an increase in motor activity and mental alertness, mild euphoria, and brighter