Last Updated:
September 5th, 2024
What is Ritalin and what is it used for?
Ritalin, known by its generic name methylphenidate, is a prescription medication mainly used for treating ADHD and narcolepsy. In the UK, it’s a Class B controlled substance, so it’s legal but tightly regulated, and you need a doctor’s prescription to get it. Ritalin helps people with ADHD improve their focus and control their behaviour, and it assists those with narcolepsy by managing their excessive daytime sleepiness.
How does Ritalin work on the body?
Ritalin works by affecting certain chemicals in the brain that contribute to hyperactivity and impulse control. For those with ADHD, it helps increase levels of dopamine and norepinephrine, which improves focus, attention and self-control. Essentially, Ritalin helps those with ADHD to function in a way that makes it easier to stay on task and manage behaviour.
In people without ADHD, Ritalin also boosts dopamine and norepinephrine, but this can lead to overstimulation. They might experience increased energy, enhanced concentration and sometimes euphoria but it can also cause anxiety, restlessness and other side effects since their brain doesn’t need the same correction in chemical balance.
Why do people mix Ritalin with alcohol?
People sometimes mix Ritalin with alcohol in an attempt to enhance the effects of both substances. Ritalin can increase energy and focus, while alcohol can reduce social inhibitions and create a feeling of relaxation. Some believe that combining the two can amplify these desirable effects, making social interactions or studying more enjoyable.
For individuals with ADHD, mixing Ritalin with alcohol may sometimes happen unintentionally due to a lack of mindfulness about the timing of their last Ritalin dose or a lack of knowledge about the risks. Regardless of the reason why someone mixed Ritalin and alcohol together, it must be known that this combination can be dangerous.
Ritalin can mask the depressant effects of alcohol, leading to excessive drinking and increasing the risk of alcohol poisoning. Additionally, mixing the two can strain the heart and other organs, leading to serious health complications.
The risks of mixing Ritalin with alcohol
Understanding the risks of mixing Ritalin and alcohol is crucial, whether you’re taking the medication legally, experimenting illegally or worried about a family member who might be using this combination without fully grasping the dangers. Both substances on their own have significant effects, and combining them can lead to serious short-term and long-term health issues.
Short-term risks
- Impaired judgement and coordination: Ritalin is a stimulant, while alcohol is a depressant. Mixing them can impair judgement and coordination more than either substance alone, increasing the risk of accidents and injuries.
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure: Combining these substances can cause a significant increase in heart rate and blood pressure, leading to cardiovascular stress. This is particularly dangerous for individuals with pre-existing heart conditions.
- Masking effects: Alcohol can mask the stimulating effects of Ritalin, leading users to consume more of either substance than intended. This can result in alcohol poisoning or overdose.
- Nausea and vomiting: Both substances can cause nausea and vomiting, and their combination can exacerbate these symptoms, leading to severe dehydration and electrolyte imbalance.
Long-term risks
- Addiction: Using Ritalin and alcohol together increases the risk of developing a dependence on one or both substances. This can lead to a cycle of abuse that is difficult to break without professional help.
- Mental health issues: Chronic use of Ritalin and alcohol can worsen mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression and psychosis. The interaction between the stimulant and depressant effects can destabilise mood and cognitive functions.
- Organ damage: Long-term abuse of Ritalin and alcohol can lead to serious organ damage. Alcohol is known to damage the liver, while chronic Ritalin use can cause damage to the heart and kidneys.
- Cognitive decline: Prolonged use of these substances can lead to cognitive decline, affecting memory, learning and decision-making abilities. This can impact academic and professional performance, as well as overall quality of life.
I’ve mixed Ritalin and alcohol and now I’m feeling unwell
If you’ve mixed Ritalin and alcohol and are now feeling unwell, it’s crucial to take immediate steps to ensure your safety. Here’s what you should do next:
Stay calm and find a safe place: Move to a quiet, comfortable area where you can sit or lie down. Try to stay as calm as possible.
- Avoid further consumption
Do not consume any more Ritalin, alcohol or other substances. Drinking water may help but avoid any other beverages, especially those with caffeine.
- Assess your symptoms
Take note of what you’re feeling. Symptoms might include nausea, dizziness, increased heart rate, anxiety or chest pain. Being aware of these will help when you seek medical assistance.
- Seek immediate medical help
Call emergency services (999 or your local emergency number) if your symptoms are severe, such as chest pain, difficulty breathing or a very rapid heartbeat. If your symptoms are more moderate but still concerning, contact a poison control centre or go to the nearest emergency room.
- Inform someone nearby
If possible, let a friend, family member or someone nearby know what’s happening. They can help monitor your condition and assist in getting help if needed.
- Avoid self-medication
Do not take any other medications in an attempt to counteract the effects. This could worsen the situation.
- Provide information to healthcare employers
When you get medical help, be sure to inform the healthcare providers about the amount of Ritalin and alcohol you’ve consumed and the time you took them. This information is crucial for your treatment.
Remember, mixing Ritalin, and alcohol can have serious health consequences and it’s important to act swiftly. Your safety is the top priority.
How can Oasis Bradford help with Ritalin and alcohol addiction?
If you’ve been struggling with addiction to Ritalin and alcohol, know that support is available and taking the first step towards recovery can make all the difference.
One effective option is through a drug addiction rehab programme, like the one offered at Oasis Bradford. At Oasis Bradford, we offer personalised care and a range of therapies, including traditional and holistic therapies, to help you on your path to recovery.
Our compassionate team will guide you through detox, therapy and aftercare, ensuring you have the tools and support needed to reclaim your health and well-being.
You’re not alone. Reaching out for help is a courageous step. Get in touch with us today for more information and start your journey to recovery.
