Being Aware On Stimulant Drug Abuse
Concerta is a prescription drug classified under Schedule II in the list of Controlled Substances of the Drug Enforcement Administration of the U.S. This schedule is a guide as to determine a drug’s current medical use in the country and the likelihood of the substance to cause dependence and addiction. Schedule II drugs have high potential to be abused which can lead to physical and psychological addiction or dependence. Concerta is considered a stimulant drug mainly used in the treatment of ADHD, a psychological disorder characterized by hyperactivity and inability to focus and follow instructions. It’s a prescription drug, and as such requires a recommendation from a doctor before it can be used or bought.
Concerta is also used by narcoleptic patients to help them stay awake and focused during day time. It is also used by obese patients because the drug induces lesser cravings for food. When brain stimulation and reducing weight become the objective of a person to use the drug, abuse is apparent. Abuse then leads to drug dependence and in the long run addiction will be the endpoint. University college students are drawn to abuse this drug because it helps them stay awake during long nights of studying for major tests. The pill can also increase focus and memory retention for a short period of time.
The temptation to cram and then get high grades during examinations make this drug highly sellable among students in the university. The results of Concerta towards ADHD patients are better focus and less hyperactivity. Although the drug is considered a stimulant drug, its effect to ADHD patients is completely otherwise. ADHD individuals have better behavior and more likely to listen and follow instructions. The side effects however, are serious and fatal especially to those who use the drugs other than medication.
Side effects of concerta addiction are serious and must be dealt with promptly. The euphoric effects of the drug may lead a person to believe in false ideas that the drug doesn’t have grave impact to key organs of the body. Outward body symptoms often precede greater internal damages. Self-control must exceed urge and good study habits should be established to prevent using the medication for all the wrong reasons.
How is abuse determined? Extented use of the drug leads to tolerance and then dependence. Inability to control drug cravings and taking it at intervals not advised by a doctor are common symptoms of an addiction with concerta. Friends and families must be cautious to these signs and symptoms because many of those addicted are in denial of their present situation.
