Thursday, November 27, 2008

Is Ritalin "Kiddy Cocaine?"

Is Ritalin “Kiddy Cocaine” ?
Ritalin is a stimulant that is used for children and adults with ADHD. The real name is methylphenidate. The brand name being Ritalin. Ritalin is similar to an amphetamine but not an actual amphetamine. It is a stimulant medication.
Children who have a difficult time sitting still, talk excessively in class, have somewhat disruptive behavior, and can’t focus, as well as a number of other possible symptoms, when the problem is to the point of being excessive and disruptive, as well as persistent, that is, it is an ongoing problem for several months or more, can be classified as ADHD, which means Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. ADD, was the term that was most common some years ago, Attention Deficit Disorder.
There are different forms of Attention Deficit Disorder, but there are basically three main categories, with hyperactivity, without hyperactivity, and combined type.
Is Ritalin “Kiddy Cocaine,” as some have dubbed it ? Well, yes and no. Ritalin and other stimulants have chemical properties similar to cocaine. They react with the same basic chemical structures in the brain, and stimulate the mind through elevating the level of dopamine, which is the same neurotransmitter involved in the rush of cocaine. Indians in Peru have long used coca as a stimulant to help them in day to day tasks requiring endurance and energy. It is used as a performance enhancer. Children, in general can focus better with stimulants, in a similar way.
However, Dr. Russell Barkley, who is a leading authority in the field of ADHD explains, that while cocaine and stimulants share the same chemical properties, cocaine is snorted and finds its way rapidly into the bloodstream and brain, producing, not only stimulating effects, but also, a head rush that becomes very addictive.
Stimulant medications, are released gradually when taken orally, so while the dopamine level is raised in the brain, it is done so more gently, and therefore, there is usually no head rush or high that results from taken Ritalin or other stimulants for attentional disorders. If you were to say that stimulants were “time-released” cocaine, that might be closer to the mark. Also, if one was to snort stimulant medications of mainline them, one might achieve a similar feeling as cocaine as well.
At one time in U.S. history, cocaine was obtained legally at pharmacies. This practice ended in December, 1914 with the Harrison anti-narcotics Act.
So, like many medications, when used medicinally or therapeutically there are both similarities and differences between stimulant medications such as Ritalin and amphetamines, and the illegal drugs that they mirror.

Tuesday, November 25, 2008

Tablets for asthma

Singulair is a popular brand name for the generic family of drugs known as Montelukast. It is commonly used for the prevention and treatment of chronic asthma. Other uses of Singulair include using it to minimize breathing problems caused by exercising or sensitivity to aspirin. It is important to bear in mind that while the drug should continue to be taken during an asthma attack, it will not stop the attack. As with most prescribed drugs, Singulair has a few side effects that one should know about before starting on a course. Singulair is a prescription drug and it is in one’s best interest to follow the doctor’s instructions and the prescribed dosage as closely as possible. Singulair is taken once daily, one hour before or two hours after a meal on a regular basis. It is meant to lessen the number and severity of attacks. Singulair is generally regarded as a safe drug. It is widely prescribed by doctors worldwide to people with asthma and related breathing troubles. Of all the observed Singulair side effects, headache, nausea and diarrhea are the most frequent ones. If these continue to persist, or get bothersome, one is advised to consult one’s doctor promptly. In some rare cases, serious liver diseases may occur. If you notice any side effects such as persistent nausea, stomach pain, dark-colored urine, fatigue, yellowing eyes or skin, seek immediate medical attention. These side effects are extremely rare but very serious. If you experience any of the side effects mentioned above, use of this drug may need to be stopped. If treatment is stopped due to those effects, one should never take this drug again. Women carry a larger risk of getting liver problems from Singulair. Other rare but potentially dangerous Singulair side effects that need prompt medical attention are sore throat, bleeding, bruising, muscle aches and unusual weight loss. Allergic reaction to Singulair is highly unlikely. However, should one develop an allergic reaction to the drug, medical attention should be sought without delay. Symptoms of an allergic reaction typically include rash, itching, swelling, dizziness and trouble in breathing.