Chemical name
Active ingredient: Methylphenidate
Fields of application
Typical areas of application of Ritalin ® are: in children from 6 years and adolescents, where the drug therapy with Ritalin should be integrated into a therapeutic concept (multimodal therapy).
- ADS
- ADHD
- Narcolepsy (= urge to sleep, which usually occurs at inappropriate times (stress situation) and is also characterized by above average daytime sleepiness)
The commercial product Ritalin® contains the active ingredient methylphenidate. The active ingredient influences the metabolism of the brain.
The effect of Ritalin® remains a controversial topic among experts. Since the mechanisms in the brain are still only poorly understood, statements about the mechanisms of action are only snapshots. It is currently assumed that methylphenidate has a similar effect to cocaine.
This means that it inhibits the reuptake of certain messenger substances such as dopamine and norepinephrine. This results in a higher concentration and activity of these messenger substances in the synaptic cleft. However, Ritalin® has a lower flooding time than cocaine.
Therefore, it usually does not cause intoxication when taken orally. How this effect affects each individual in the short term, long term, psychologically and physically, both individually and in everyday life, seems to be very individual. It is said to help people with ADHD to better focus and concentrate.
Many years ago, it was discovered that Ritalin® can also have a target-oriented effect in adults with ADHD. However, as in children with ADHD, the effect is very dependent on various factors. Thus, Ritalin® in adults seems to be only meaningful in combination with other non-drug interventions.
Since April 2011, the approvals for drugs containing methylphenidate have been supplemented for the treatment of adults with ADHD. Ritalin® adult has been available since May 2014. Due to drug safety, different preparations have been developed for children and adults.
The contents of the package inserts, the maximum dose and the time of administration are different. The active principles of the drug are probably similar in adults and children with ADHD. It is controversially discussed whether the same or the opposite effects occur in healthy people. Experience reports and studies show both equally. It is important to note that this is a prescription drug, which should only be used with a corresponding diagnosis anyway.
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