ADHD: Long Term Ritalin Use Can Worsen Symptoms

Treatment of ADHD with methylphenidate (Ritalin) is designed to regulate dopamine transporters which are believed to be low in people with ADHD. This new study examined adults who had taken methylphenidate over a 12 month period.  The study participants were found to have elevated levels of dopamine transporters.

"Dopamine is a brain chemical hat sends signals between nerve cells, and is linked with attention and pleasure. It's thought that people with ADHD have problems with their dopamine signaling, and drugs like Ritalin work by increasing levels of dopamine, which helps patients focus."(http://news.yahoo.com/adhd-drug-may-spur-brain-changes-study-suggests-213628387.html)

"Researchers found that found that the rise in DA (dopamine neurotransporters) as a result of long-term Ritalin use means the lengthy consumption may decrease the treatment's efficacy and worsen symptoms when they're not taking medication (i.e. on weekends)."(See http://www.medicaldaily.com/articles/15582/20130515/ritalin-drug-study-long-term-ritalin-use-adhd.htm#7E8OEjZoFLlIiCFv.99)

An increase in DA could mean patients need higher doses of the medication for it to be effective according to the researchers. Further research is this area is needed. The study is published in PLOS ONE. 

©Mary M Conneely T/A Advocacy in Action