Concerta
is a brand name for a sustained release formulation of Methylphenidate, MPH, a psycho
stimulant drug originally popularized as the brand name Ritalin.
Concerta
is prescribed to treat ADHD, narcolepsy, postural orthostatic tachycardia
syndrome, and sometimes for lethargy, obesity and depression.
Alternative & street names:
Concerta is basically the same thing as Ritalin, so could be
used interchangeably, along with other brand names such as Ritalina, Rilatine,
Attenta, Methylin, Penid, Rubifen, Metadate, and Focalin.
Methylphenidate is referred to in short-hand as MPH.
How is
Concerta taken?
- orally by
sustained release tablets
- crushed
and snorted, if abused
- by
transdermal patch, marketed as Daytrana
Effects of
consumption
Concerta,
like other forms of MPH, modifies the levels of dopamine in the brain, giving
the user greater ability to control impulses, regulate emotions and sustain
attention.
MPH starts
working about 30 minutes after consumption. In an extended release formulation
like Concerta, the effects should last all day long.
Impact on
the mind/body and health risks
Side effects of Concerta may include:
- increased
blood pressure
- decreased
growth rate in children users
- decreased
appetite
- changes
in vision
- increased
aggression
- akathisia
- motor
restlessness
Due to its effect on blood pressure, Concerta users have
risks of heart attack, stroke or death, as well as the risk of convulsive episodes
for users prone to seizures.
Concerta abuse can
lead to addiction. Here are some common warning signs:
- buying
Concerta without a prescription
- getting
a prescription by faking symptoms
- taking
Concerta for non-prescribed reasons
- over-use
- using
as a “study drug”
- using
as a “party drug”
- using
as a weight loss drug
Common
treatment options
Abusers
of “uppers” or amphetamines, like Concerta,
can often become emotional, overwhelmed and confused in early sobriety, as well
as capable of healthy doses of denial about their condition.
Although
users often do have legitimate needs for a drug like Concerta, it is
also very easy for those users to turn those symptoms into justification for Concerta misuse and
abuse.
Consequently,
Concerta abusers
may require 24/7 medical and psychological care in an inpatient detox and
treatment facility.
Withdrawal/detox
symptoms
Symptoms
of Concerta withdrawal
could include:
- fatigue
- depression
- changes in heart rhythm
Concerta withdrawal
is not life-threatening, but it can quite uncomfortable physically and
psychologically. Consequently, some users continue to take Concerta instead of
dealing with the effects of withdrawal.