How do I know if I need a prescription to Ritalin?
ADD/ADHD most commonly is found in younger children, though it is also possible for adults to be affected.  While Ritalin has been proven to alleviate the symptoms of the disorder, it is one of the most over-prescribed drugs on the market.  Many people who have a short attention span, not at all a medical condition, think that Ritalin is an easy, fix-it-all, miracle drug.  This is not the case.  If you have a mild headache, you don’t take a prescription migraine medicine.  If you honestly think that ADD or ADHD affects you, talk to your doctor. He or she may prescribe Ritalin, though there are other medications that can also help the problem. As is the case with any medication, DO NOT INGEST RITALIN UNLESS YOU KNOW HOW TO DO SO PROPERLY.  Though it is popularly prescribed, it is still a drug, which means that it seriously affects the workings of your mind and body. Misuse can lead to severe medical and mental problems.   

How to recognize Ritalin Abuse
Even if used correctly, there are potential side effects of Ritalin.  However, it is important to remember that Ritalin is beneficial to those who need it.  Here is a list of the negative aspects of the drug that are especially common when the drug is abused. 

• Can cause appetite loss, anxiety, insomnia, tics, headaches, stomach aches
• Has been seen as a “gateway drug” – may increase the probability of drug use later in life, especially for cocaine, which also stimulates the central nervous system
• May need to be taken for an extended period of time
• Can lead to overly narrow or excessive focusing
• May cause reduced communication or socialization
• Users may be unusually somber, subdued, apathetic, lethargic, drowsy, dopey, dazed, and tired

There are obviously side effects that are much more severe if the drug is taken improperly.  These effects are far more likely to occur due to the amount of stimulant in the body.

• Tremors and muscle twitching
• Fevers, convulsions, and headaches (may be severe)
• Irregular heartbeat and respirations (may be profound and life threatening)
• anxiety, restlessness
• Paranoia, hallucinations, and delusions
• Excessive repetition of movements and meaningless tasks
• Formication (sensation of bugs or worms crawling under the skin)
• Death