Long-Term Side Effects: Brain Changes
Many scientists are now studying the long-term effects of
Ritalin on the brain. However, at this point, most of these studies involve rats or mice, not humans. In these studies, animals given Ritalin early in life were shown to have several changes in behavior and brain chemistry. A study published in the November 2006 edition of
Biological Psychiatry suggests that
methylphenidate decreases the survival of new brain cells in certain parts of the brain in adult rats that were given methylphenidate when they were younger. These changes could possibly lead to
depression or
anxiety in adulthood. However, it is important to note that animals do not always respond to medicines the same way that humans do.
The long-term Ritalin side effects are not well understood at this time. However, much research is being done in this area. It is known that, over time, Ritalin can cause a slowing down of growth, and your child's growth should be monitored while he or she is taking Ritalin. Because the long-term side effects are not fully understood yet, it should not be used for any longer than necessary.
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