Ok Iam getting the gust of both sides. Iam a kid who takes ritalin while concentrating with schoolwork. I do notice that it really does help alot when taking tests and doing schoolwork. It is a complete power house to taking it than compared to not when focusing. Iam hearing that Ritalin causes shrinkage of the brain and degenerates it. Is this most likely a rumor or am i worrying too much?
2006-12-17 10:27:12 · 2 answers · asked by Mrdude 2 in Health ➔ Mental Health
First of all, good for you for being proactive about your health.
I don't want you to be scared of that other response. All drugs can have side effects, but they are very rare, and one always has to consider the benefits.
I am a thigh school eacher. I wish that kids didn't need things like Ritalin (and I know that in some countries it is over-prescribed), but I have also witnessed the dramatic positive effect it can have on kids who are truly ADHD. Their schoolwork improves, their concentration and enjoyment of school improves, their friendships improve---it can be quite amazing. And it can be the difference between having a horrible high school experieince or a great one.
As people get older, they often try getting off the Ritalin, often around age 15 or 16.
If you are really worried about it, you can ask your doctor to try one of the other ADHD medications, but if the Ritalin is working for you, you should not mess it up.
You are obviously experiencing benefits from it. You won't have to be on it your whole life.
2006-12-17 11:30:59 · answer #1 · answered by P-nuts and Hair-dos 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋
This is a very controversal drug. It's easy to think that you are sick and there is something wrong with you. Drugs are easy to get from doctors. They are no good.
Common Ritalin side effects are:
* Difficulty sleeping
* Loss of appetite
* Irritability
* Nervousness
* Stomach aches
* Headaches
* Dry mouth
* Blurry vision
* Nausea
* Dizziness
* Drowsiness
* Tics
Other Ritalin side effects can include:
* Hypersensitivity
* Anorexia
* Heart palpitations
* Blood pressure and pulse changes
* Cardiac arrhythmia
* Anemia
* Scalp hair loss
* Psychosis
The following, though rare, have also been reported as Ritalin side effects:
* Abnormal liver function
* Cerebral arteritis
* Leukopenia
* Death
2006-12-17 18:34:09 · answer #2 · answered by Dweet 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋