Ritalin is a prescription stimulant and the brand name for methylphenidate. It’s used to treat ADHD and narcolepsy. Like other prescription stimulants, Ritalin is safe to use as prescribed. Ritalin abuse can be dangerous and addictive, however.
ADHD drugs are increasingly abused, both for the increased energy they provide and as performance enhancers for students and athletes. There’s no proof Ritalin abuse gives anyone an edge in anything, other than developing an addiction. High doses of Ritalin can be dangerous as well; side effects include stroke and heart attack.
Ritalin withdrawal and abuse is treatable; detox centers provide an excellent first step in treating Ritalin addiction.
