Methylphenidate: What It Is, What It Is For And Side Effects
In recent decades, the diagnosis of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, which is related to deficits in executive functions, has become largely popular. The drug of first choice to treat ADHD is methylphenidate
In this article we will describe what methylphenidate is, what its applications are in ADHD and narcolepsy, what side effects it most commonly causes and in which cases this medication is contraindicated.
Methylphenidate is a stimulant drug which has effects similar to those of amphetamines and is primarily used to treat the symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as well as narcolepsy.
On the other hand, methylphenidate is marketed under various names; some of the best known are Ritalin, Concerta, Aradix and Rubifen
Although it began to be used in the 1960s, its use became popular in the 90s as a result of the increase in the number of ADHD diagnoses. Currently its use for the treatment of this disorder is widely spread.
The mechanism of action of methylphenidate consists of inhibition of dopamine and norepinephrine reuptake: blocks the transporters of these catecholamines, increasing their concentration in the synaptic space and therefore their neurotransmission effects. It also slightly enhances serotonin function.
The effects of methylphenidate are especially intense in the prefrontal cortex. The increase in the activity of this brain region favors executive functions such as reasoning, planning and behavioral inhibition This stimulation of the central nervous system also manifests itself in improved alertness and attention.
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder It is a neurological disorder that begins in childhood and is related to problems in executive functions. Although there is controversy surrounding the existence of this alteration, most clinicians believe that it has a clear biological basis, although there is a certain tendency toward overdiagnosis.
ADHD has been associated with dysfunctions in the transmission of dopamine and norepinephrine in the central nervous system; The agonist effects of methylphenidate make it possible to compensate for these deficits functional. Treatment with methylphenidate is successful in approximately 70% of cases, but can lead to significant side effects.
The recommended treatment for ADHD is a combination of methylphenidate and cognitive-behavioral therapy focused on training coping strategies for symptoms, both for the child and their caregivers.
Use in cases of narcolepsy
Narcolepsy is a neurological disorder that causes alterations in sleep-wake cycles Among the most prominent symptoms of narcolepsy are daytime hypersomnolence, episodes of cataplexy, and intrusions of REM sleep into wakefulness, especially hypnagogic hallucinations.
In the case of this disorder, methylphenidate and other psychostimulants, such as modafinil and some antidepressants are used to increase the level of alertness; These drugs reduce drowsiness and improve performance.
Side and adverse effects
The most common side effects of methylphenidate are anxiety and nervousness, nausea, dry mouth, and loss of appetite, which in turn leads to weight loss ; In the long term, these effects sometimes cause slightly lower physical development, which is maintained as long as the drug is consumed.
Among the gastrointestinal symptoms that methylphenidate can produce are abdominal pain, heartburn and vomiting. Sometimes cardiovascular symptoms also occur, particularly tachycardia and mild palpitations, alterations in blood pressure and Raynaud’s phenomenon.
Other common side effects They are emotional instability, irritability, hyperhidrosis or excessive sweating, dry eyes, blurred vision and bruxism, which consists of continuous clenching of the jaws or teeth.
Adverse reactions to methylphenidate They include symptoms such as akathisia (severe agitation and discomfort), dyskinesia (involuntary muscle movements), seizures, chest pain, or breathing difficulties. The appearance of these and other serious symptoms should be understood as a sign that the medication should be reviewed.
Warnings and contraindications
People with cardiovascular disorders, such as hypertension or structural heart abnormalities, they should take special caution when taking methylphenidate. Likewise, it is contraindicated if certain psychological disorders exist, such as psychosis, mood disorders, anxiety problems, anorexia nervosa and substance addictions.
Drinking alcohol increases the likelihood of the side effects we have described and aggravates them when they are already present. Methylphenidate is also contraindicated in people with glaucoma, pheochromocytoma, hyperthyroidism or a history of depression.
Consuming methylphenidate during pregnancy is not recommended because the possible consequences have not been sufficiently studied; Some preliminary research suggests that can induce respiratory and circulatory problems in the fetus
