Ritalin and other methylphenidatesWhat type of medicine is this? Ritalin and other methylphenidates belong to a class of drugs called stimulants, which typically excite or speed up the brain and body. Stimulants increase endurance, reduce hunger, make the user feel less tired, and produce feelings of well-being and happiness. Many substances, legal and illegal, are considered stimulants. Caffeine is a mild stimulant naturally found in coffee, tea and chocolate. Amphetamines (am-FETT-uh-meens) are powerful stimulant medications available only by prescription. Methylphenidates are chemically related to amphetamines, but their effects are not as intense. They too are available only by prescription. Cocaine and crack are examples of illegal stimulants. (Entries on caffeine, amphetamines, and cocaine are also available in this encyclopedia.) Methylphenidates, such as Ritalin, are primarily prescribed to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). People with ADHD generally have difficulty concentrating and controlling their actions. For example, they might speak or act recklessly before thinking about the consequences of such behavior. The main symptom of ADHD is hyperactivity, meaning that an individual is noticeably more active than their peers. Children with ADHD often have difficulty paying attention in school, sitting still, and waiting their turn. They may have difficulty concentrating or concentrating on certain tasks, including tests and homework. These difficulties sometimes hinder social development and the establishment of lasting relationships. ADHD is frequently diagnosed in childhood, but it can persist into adulthood. As such, it actually affects individuals of all ages. Methylphenidate may help ADHD... middle of paper ...... me, people take Ritalin and other methylphenidates without a prescription for non-medical purposes. High school and college students are known to take this medication to stay awake and increase their attention span while studying. The drug is also used recreationally in combination with alcohol. “Recreational” refers to using drugs solely to get high, not to treat a medical problem. Alcohol is a depressant and drinking too much of it makes people slow down and tired. So some people combine methylphenidate and alcohol because it makes them effective. Top of Article allows them to stay awake and interact with others while still drinking. Other addicts mix Ritalin with heroin, cocaine, or both for a stronger stimulant effect. Methylphenidate abuse, with or without other substances in the mixture, can cause serious psychological and physical harm to the user..