Possible Consequences of Dexmethylphenidate Abuse
The consequences of
dexmethylphenidate abuse can be extremely dangerous. Taking high doses of a stimulant can result in an irregular heartbeat, dangerously high body temperatures, and/or the potential for cardiovascular failure or
seizures. Taking high doses of some stimulants repeatedly over a short period of time can lead to hostility or feelings of paranoia in some individuals.
Dexmethylphenidate should not be mixed with
antidepressants or over-the-counter
common cold medicine containing decongestants without the approval of a healthcare provider. Antidepressants may enhance the effects of dexmethylphenidate, and dexmethylphenidate in combination with decongestants may cause
blood pressure to become dangerously high or lead to irregular heart rhythms.
Where to Get Help for Dexmethylphenidate Abuse
When searching for help for dexmethylphenidate abuse or addiction, your healthcare provider is a great place to start. He or she will be able to help you deal with dexmethylphenidate abuse or may suggest other resources for you.
Treating an addiction to dexmethylphenidate is usually based on behavioral therapies that have been proven effective at treating cocaine or
methamphetamine addiction. At this time, there are no proven medications for the treatment of a dexmethylphenidate addiction. However, antidepressants may be used to manage the
symptoms of depression that can accompany early abstinence from dexmethylphenidate.
Depending on the person's situation, the first step in treating an addiction to a prescription stimulant, such as dexmethylphenidate, may be to slowly decrease the drug's dose and attempt to treat withdrawal symptoms
(see Focalin Withdrawal). This process of detoxification could then be followed with one of many behavioral therapies.
Contingency management, for example, improves treatment outcomes by enabling patients to earn vouchers for drug-free urine tests; the vouchers can be exchanged for items that promote healthy living. Cognitive-behavioral therapies, which teach patients skills to recognize risky situations, avoid drug use, and cope more effectively with problems, are proving beneficial. Recovery support groups may also be effective in conjunction with a behavioral therapy.
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