The tablets are most frequently taken orally or by crushing the tablets and snorting the powder. However, some addicts dissolve the tablets in water and inject the mixture. When injected, the insoluble fillers used in the tablets block small blood vessels, causing serious damage to the lungs and retina of the eye. Ritalin also can increase the user s heart rate and blood pressure and is capable of producing psychological and physical dependence. Ritalin is a stimulant, similar to amphetamines in the nature and duration of its effects.
Researchers believe it works by activating the brain stem arousal system and cortex.
Pharmacologically, it works primarily on the neurotransmitter dopamine, and in that respect resembles cocaine. Short-term effects can include nervousness and insomnia, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting, dizziness, palpitations, headaches, changes in heart rate and blood pressure skin rashes and itching, abdominal pain, toxic psychosis, psychotic episodes, drug dependence syndrome and severe depression upon withdrawal. Long-term effects High doses of stimulants can result in weight loss, tremors and muscle twitching, fevers, convulsions, severe headaches, irregular heartbeat and respirations, anxiety, paranoia, hallucinations and delusions. The National Institute on Drug Abuse offers a fact sheet about Ritalin. The National Institute on Mental Health offers a brochure about attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, including the use of Ritalin, and a question and answer column .