Ritalin (Methylphenidate hydrochloride) is a white, odorless powder. Unlike many other drugs, Ritalin works by impairing the functions of the brain rather than improving it temporarily. Ritalin is available in dosages of 5mg to 20mg as tablets. This is a Schedule II drug, and is highly addictive as it produces a false sense of pleasure and well being to the user.
Some street slang terms for Ritalin are Vitamin R, Pineapple, Uppers, Jif, Rball, Rids, etc.
Some of the withdrawal symptoms noticed among Ritalin users are cramps, insomnia, irritability, depression, nausea, anxiety, fatigue, etc. Ritalin overdose can lead to tremors, agitation, vomiting, hyperreflexia, muscle twitching, flushing, sweating, delirium, palpitations, cardiac arrhythmias, tachycardia, confusion, mydriasis, high blood pressure, convulsions, coma, etc.
Ritalin side effects are insomnia, dizziness, nervousness, appetite loss, headaches, rashes, itches, stomach cramps, toxic psychosis, digestive problems, weight loss, fevers, convulsions, tremors, depression, paranoia, hallucinations, coma, etc. There have also been cases of death reported among users of Ritalin for non medical reasons.