Treatment Options for Methylphenidate Addiction Symptoms

Methylphenidate is a generic, central nervous system psychostimulant drug which is also available in brand names like Ritalin and Concerta. Methylphenidate is primarily prescribed to treat adults and children with ADHD. It can also be used as a treatment for narcolepsy symptoms. When someone uses methylphenidate as prescribed, the risk of addiction and dependence are low. However, methylphenidate does have an abuse potential. Methylphenidate affects neurotransmitters that can create a euphoric response when the drug is taken in high doses. With this type of use, the brain’s reward system can be triggered, which can lead to the development of an addiction. If someone is addicted to methylphenidate, it becomes the top priority in their life -often to the detriment of everything else. Someone who is struggling with methylphenidate addiction may require professional treatment. Treatment options for methylphenidate addiction include medical detox and either inpatient or outpatient rehab. There are different methods used in addiction treatment programs.

Methylphenidate Medical Detox

Before someone can begin actual addiction treatment, they may require a methylphenidate medical detox. Methylphenidate is a drug that can lead to physical dependence. When someone stops using a substance they’re dependent upon, they may experience withdrawal symptoms. Methylphenidate withdrawal symptoms can be mild or severe, and may include complications such as psychosis, depression, panic or anxiety. A methylphenidate medical detox may be necessary for someone who has a co-occurring mental health disorder or who is dependent upon multiple substances simultaneously. Someone who has abused methylphenidate over a long period of time may also require a medical detox.

Methylphenidate Rehabilitation Programs

Every methylphenidate rehab program should have some common elements. First, a rehab program needs to be highly individualized. A treatment program needs to take into consideration the patient’s history of drug abuse, the severity and duration of abuse, their overall mental and physical health, and any other relevant elements of their lifestyle or environment. Then, a treatment plan can be created and along the way, that plan may be altered as necessary. The goal of any methylphenidate rehab program should be to help someone stop compulsively using and seeking drugs.

Inpatient Methylphenidate Rehab

An inpatient methylphenidate rehab is a residential program but, even under the category of inpatient treatment, not all programs are the same. Programs can vary in length and approach. An inpatient methylphenidate rehab offers structure, supervision and support. This kind of regimented intensive treatment can be beneficial for certain people. Inpatient methylphenidate rehab might be well-suited for someone who doesn’t have a strong home support system or who needs to leave their home environment to succeed in recovery. Inpatient rehab can work well for people with long-term, severe addictions, addictions to multiple substances, or people who have tried other types of programs and relapsed. An inpatient methylphenidate rehab will often include medication when necessary, behavioral counseling, and treatment for co-occurring psychological conditions. A big benefit of inpatient methylphenidate rehab is that it allows patients to leave their stressors and triggers and focus entirely on recovery.

Outpatient Methylphenidate Rehab

Outpatient methylphenidate rehab is another option. In this scenario, the program tends to be less intensive and structured. Outpatient treatment often occurs following an inpatient stay, but it can be done on its own as well. Outpatient methylphenidate rehab may include behavioral counseling, family therapy, relationship counseling, or participation in a 12-step program. When someone participates in an outpatient methylphenidate rehab, they can stay at home and continue living and working. Along with this, outpatient rehab is also less expensive than residential care.

Choosing a Methylphenidate Center

There are so many factors that are involved in choosing a methylphenidate center. There’s no one type of program that is going to be right for every person. Some people benefit from an outpatient program if they occasionally abuse methylphenidate. Other people may not find value in an outpatient program and decide instead that they need much more in-depth treatment. Some specific questions to think about include:

  • Have previous treatment programs been tried before?
  • Does the individual have a long-term, severe addiction?
  • Is the person addicted to multiple substances?
  • Is a medical detox needed?
  • Does the individual have a supportive home environment?
  • What are the costs and what can be covered by insurance and other payment options?
  • Will the person benefit from a structured, supervised environment?
  • Are there possible co-occurring mental health disorders?
  • Are there physical health complications along with an addiction?
  • Are there legal or criminal justice considerations?

Today is the right day to take the first step. The first step is as simple as calling or contacting us at The Recovery Village, and that first step can change the course of your life or the life of someone you love.

Medical Disclaimer

The Recovery Village aims to improve the quality of life for people struggling with substance use or mental health disorder with fact-based content about the nature of behavioral health conditions, treatment options and their related outcomes. We publish material that is researched, cited, edited and reviewed by licensed medical professionals. The information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers.