Metadate is the brand name of the generic methylphenidate, a central nervous system stimulant that is most often used in the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Methylphenidate is also the generic component of other common ADHD medications, including Ritalin and Concerta. This medication, while extremely helpful in treating the symptoms associated with ADHD it is also habit-forming when abused. Like all other addictive substances, becoming addicted to this medication can cause a person to experience Metadate withdrawal when they attempt to stop their use.
Why is Metadate Abused?
Metadate is often abused by people who don’t need medication for ADHD, but want the stimulant effects that this medication produces. Those who abuse Metadate benefit from a sudden boost in energy, increased focus, and improved concentration. Many of those who abuse Metadate are college students who want to improve their studies while staying awake for longer periods of time. Similar to other stimulant substances like Ritalin and Adderall, Metadate givers individuals the ability to keep awake and increase their productivity.
Metadate is also abused because of how its stimulant effects can balance out the effects of depressant substances like heroin, prescription opioids, or alcohol. Individuals who are addicted to these types of substances may starting taking Metadate to give themselves the jolt they need to keep going to counter the side effects of depressant drugs. Combining stimulants with depressants is extremely dangerous and can lead to severe physical and psychological consequences — including death.
Signs and Symptoms of Metadate Addiction
There can be a number of physical, mental, and behavioral symptoms associated with Metadate addiction. Typically, the severity of these symptoms are reflective of how severe the addiction is. Some of the most common symptoms of this specific type of addiction can include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Agitation
- Irritability
- Sleeping less
- Headaches
- Sweating
- Excessive talking
- Weight loss
- Decrease in appetite
- Anxiety
- Panic
- False sense of self-confidence
- Hallucinations
- Highly alert
- Overly social
Metadate can cause people to experience a sudden surge in energy, which is what leads to symptoms such as excessive talking, needing less sleep, decrease in appetite, and increased alertness. However, when coming down from a Metadate high, symptoms such as irritability, anxiety, headaches, and exhaustion can occur.
Detox for Metadate Withdrawal
It is considered a major accomplishment when someone decides to get clean from their Metadate addiction. However, it is extremely important to get the right care prior to beginning Metadate withdrawal. That is because there can be some complications that develop along the way.
Immediately stopping the use of any type of stimulant substance is going to cause a disruption in the body. This is because the body has become accustomed to the presence of a stimulant like Metadate in order to function. As a result when the use suddenly stops, a number of withdrawal symptoms can start to develop. These symptoms, depending on the severity of the addiction, can vary in intensity. Withdrawal symptoms can include:
- Low energy
- Anxiety
- Irritability
- Loss of focus
- Poor concentration
- Fatigue
- Mood swings
- Dizziness
- Problems sleeping
- Increase in appetite
- Changes in cardiovascular health (such as heart rate and blood pressure)
It is possible for individuals who have abused stimulants like Metadate for a long period of time to develop anhedonia, which is a condition that occurs when an individual is unable to experience pleasure of any kind. This happens because the brain adapted to the Metadate and stopped producing its feel-good chemicals, such as dopamine.
Benefits of Detox for Metadate Withdrawal
Anytime a person is about to go into withdrawal from a substance they have been abusing for a long time, it is always beneficial that they do so in the care of a professional detox center. When in detox, individuals who are withdrawing from Metadate can be prescribed over-the-counter and prescription medications that can help minimize symptoms of Metadate withdrawal. This can make the entire process easier to manage, allowing for more mental and emotional resiliency. A detox center can also keep individuals safe and provide them with the therapeutic support they need as they go through this process.
Metadate Addiction Rehab in Orange County
If you are addicted to Metadate and are looking to end your use once and for all, look no further than Pacific Sands Recovery in Orange County. Call us right now at (949) 426-7962 to speak with one of our dedicated administrative professionals. We encourage you to visit our website to learn more about what we can offer you, too.
Do not wait any longer to reach out for the care you need. Call us today.
