Concerta Addiction
Concerta (methylphenidate) is a prescription stimulant in the same class as Ritalin.
Those who use the drug recreationally—without a prescription—and those who take more than their prescribed dosage are at risk for developing a Concerta addiction.
A person with an addiction to Concerta will experience uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms if they stop taking the drug, such as paranoia, fatigue and depression. Other signs of Concerta addiction include:
- Needing higher doses to feel the drug’s effects (tolerance)
- Experiencing strong urges to use Concerta
- Finding new ways to obtain the drug—legally or illegally—in order to abuse it
- Using Concerta even if it’s causing issues with loved ones or responsibilities
Those struggling with a Concerta addiction are advised not to quit taking the drug without medical supervision. A medical provider can set up a tapering program for the user where the drug will be administered in increasingly smaller doses. A medical professional can also help users manage and treat withdrawal symptoms.
“When abused by older teens or adults – especially if it’s crushed or poured from capsules then snorted or injected – the drug is more like other forms of amphetamine, including methamphetamine, that have damaging and addictive psychological and physical effects.”
Understanding Concerta (Methylphenidate)
Concerta pills are cylindrical in shape and either red, gray, yellow or white, depending on the potency. They are formulated in 18 mg, 27 mg, 36 mg and 54 mg strengths. Concerta is a brand name of the drug methylphenidate. Other brand names of methylphenidate include:
- Aptensio XR
- Metadate CD
- Metadate ER
- Ritalin
- Ritalin LA
- Ritalin SR
Street names for Concerta include kibbles & bits, kiddy cocaine, pineapple, kiddie coke, smarties and skittles. Concerta is a Schedule II regulated stimulant.
Concerta and other stimulants have a calming effect and increase focus, so they are widely used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The drug also slowly raises the user’s dopamine levels in the brain, achieving a therapeutic effect.
Some people abuse Concerta by crushing and snorting large doses of it for a more powerful high. The drug can also be abused intravenously.
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No matter where you live or what your budget is, our treatment specialists can help you find the perfect treatment center for your needs.
Concerta Effects and Abuse
Getting or using Concerta without a prescription is considered abuse of the drug. For those with a prescription, increasing the dose and/or frequency without the prescribing doctor’s recommendation is also considered Concerta abuse.
Concerta affects chemicals in the brain and nervous system that contribute to hyperactivity and impulse control. It is often prescribed to treat ADHD and narcolepsy. Although many people take Concerta to treat these conditions, others abuse the drug for its stimulant properties.
People may abuse Concerta to:
- Improve academic performance – As a stimulant, Concerta increases focus and concentration as well as alertness and energy level. College-age students commonly abuse stimulants as study aids.
- Lose weight – Stimulants are appetite suppressants, so people abuse Concerta in order to lose weight.
- Get high – Because Concerta activates the reward system in the brain, the drug can provide a high when taken by someone who is not being treated for ADHD. Increased dopamine levels are associated with attention and pleasure.
A Concerta overdose can affect the individual both physically and psychologically. Physical Concerta overdose symptoms include:
- Vomiting
- Twitching
- Convulsions
- Headache
- Increased heart rate
- Increased blood pressure
- Sinus arrhythmia
- Dry mouth
Psychological symptoms of Concerta overdose include:
- Manic-like state
- Psychoses
- Aggression
- Compulsive behaviors
- Hallucinations
- Delusions
- Paranoia
- Disorientation
Common Concerta Drug Combinations
Concerta is sometimes taken in combination with other drugs, such as alcohol—especially among college students. Mixing Concerta with alcohol can have dangerous consequences.
As a stimulant, Concerta can override the depressant effects of alcohol. Users may not feel the effects of alcohol like they normally would, leading them to drink more. This increases the risk of alcohol poisoning, which can be fatal.
Combining the drug with alcohol can also intensify the negative side effects of Concerta, such as nausea, headaches and dizziness. It can also cause anxiety and impaired concentration in the user.
Concerta Abuse Statistics
6.4million
Approximately 6.4 million children four to 17 years of age have been diagnosed with ADHD.
1/3college students
Approximately one-third of college students have abused stimulants like Concerta.
15,585ER visits
There were 15,585 emergency room visits related to ADHD treatment medications like Concerta reported in 2010.
Overcoming a Concerta addiction can be difficult, but professional treatment can help with the process. Please call us now for help finding a Concerta addiction treatment program.
