How does Ritalin work as a drug? | Ritalin® Effect

How does Ritalin work as a drug?

There is a close relationship between the active substance methylphenidate (Ritalin) and amphetamines. The latter were developed decades ago as a stimulant for soldiers and unfold their effect in principle in the same way as ritalin, namely by increasing the concentration of transmitters in the synaptic gap between two brain nerve cells (see above). Since Ritalin can achieve an effect almost equal to that of amphetamines at higher doses, and since it is also much easier to obtain, Ritalin is sometimes misused as a drug.

Ritalin is then often used as a stimulant for particularly high occupational stress and the doses taken are steadily increased. However, such abuse is dangerous and can have serious, sometimes even life-threatening consequences. Therefore Ritalin should be taken only on medical advice and only in the prescribed doses. If the hyperkinetic symptoms do not improve in the course of a month despite medical dose adjustment, treatment with Ritalin® must be discontinued.

What can be done when the effect wears off?

Sometimes, during the course of Ritalin therapy, a certain tolerance development can occur, i.e. that constant Ritalin doses achieve an increasingly smaller effect. In this case it is recommended to consult the treating physician. Together with the patient, the doctor can re-evaluate the situation and weigh up whether a dose increase is possible.

Often, however, the patient’s behavioral problems in such cases are not only due to ADHD, but also to other factors, such as a disruption in social behavior or even a depressive episode. Consequently, treatment of ADHD with Ritalin alone cannot be the sole therapy, but must be supplemented by further measures. General information on drug therapy can be found here: A list of all drugs we have already published can be found at Drugs A-Z.

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• ADHD drugs