Common reasons for Methylin abuse include weight loss and the "high" feeling that it provides. Addiction and abuse are more likely to occur when the medication is taken in higher-than-recommended doses or for extended periods of time. The consequences of Methylin abuse can be extremely serious and may result in irregular heartbeat, cardiovascular failure or seizures, or dangerously high body temperatures.
Methylin Abuse: An Overview
Medications can be effective when they are used properly, but some can be addictive and dangerous when misused. Fortunately, most Americans take their medications responsibly. Addiction to prescription drugs is rare. However, over 15 million Americans a year report using a prescription drug for non-medical reasons at least once during the year.
Methylin® is a prescription medication used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (
ADHD). It is also used to treat
narcolepsy. There are currently two forms of Methylin available:
- Methylin Chewable Tablets® (methylphenidate chewable tablets)
- Methylin Oral Solution® (methylphenidate oral solution).
As a stimulant, Methylin can be habit-forming when used in doses higher than the recommended dosage or for extended periods of time. It is also often abused. Stimulants, such as Methylin, are also known as uppers and beanies, among other names.
Reasons for Methylin Abuse
One reason for Methylin abuse is for the "high" feeling it causes. Stimulants such as Methylin can increase alertness, attention, and energy, which are accompanied by increases in
blood pressure, heart rate, and breathing. Another reason the drug is abused is for weight loss
(see Methylin and Weight Loss). Weight loss is a common side effect of methylphenidate, the active ingredient in Methylin. The medication is also sometimes abused by students who do not have ADHD, who feel that it helps them perform better in school.
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