Ritalin is the brand name for methylphenidate hydrochloride, prescribed to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Similar to an amphetamine, Ritalin is a central nervous system stimulant that can cause withdrawal effects in people who discontinue usage suddenly.
Considerations
Withdrawal symptoms are most likely in people taking higher doses of Ritalin than prescribed. The effects can begin up to several days after the person stops taking the drug.
Most Common Effects
Common withdrawal effects in these individuals include changes in heart rhythm, extreme fatigue, agitation, increased appetite, nausea, insomnia, sleeping excessively and unpleasant dreams.
Depression
Depression is also a frequent Ritalin withdrawal effect, causing difficulties in relationships, school and work. This mood change may not actually be a withdrawal symptom but a sign of a depressive disorder that had been masked by Ritalin use.
Suicide
The American Psychiatric Association specifies the major complication of Ritalin withdrawal as suicide. People withdrawing from Ritalin should be monitored for signs of suicidal thoughts or behavior.
Treatment
Usually, Ritalin withdrawal effects are not severe, but the process can be very uncomfortable. Depending on the severity of the symptoms, the doctor may recommend beginning use again and tapering it off gradually. Short-term prescriptions of antidepressants or other medications also can help.
Tags: withdrawal effects, Ritalin withdrawal