Metadate (Methylphenidate) Addiction

What Is Metadate (Methylphenidate)?

Metadate is a medication that is used to treat symptoms of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The generic name for Metadate is methylphenidate, which is the same active drug in commonly prescribed ADHD drugs like Ritalin. Methylphenidate is a central nervous system stimulant. When it’s prescribed to someone who has ADHD, it’s believed to help them pay attention, focus and control their behavior. It may also help people with ADHD improve their listening skills and organize tasks more effectively. Metadate CD is an extended-release version of methylphenidate. Metadate is believed to help with symptoms of ADHD because it affects neurotransmittersin the brain, including dopamine and norepinephrine, that play a role in functions like focus and concentration. Metadate CD can be prescribed to adults and children aged six years and older.

When a child is believed to have ADHD, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that they are first treated with behavioral therapy before using medication. Primary care doctors should also prescribe a medication like Metadate along with other treatments, such as behavioral therapy or educational interventions. Metadate CD is usually taken once a day in capsule form, and the time-release formulation of the drug allows for steady levels to stay in the body throughout the day. Some of the common side effects of Metadate CD can include headache, decreased appetite, stomach pain, dizziness, nervousness and sleep disturbances.

What Does Metadate Look Like?

Metadate CD comes in various dosages. A 10 mg of Metadate CD is green and white and is a capsule. It’s imprinted with “Celltech 574 10 mg.” A 40 mg dose of Metadate CD is white and yellow and is also a capsule. The 40 mg dose is imprinted with “UCB 582 40 mg.” Metadate CD 50 mg is purple and white, is capsule shaped, and is imprinted with “UCB 583 50 mg.” Metadate CD 60 mg is white and also comes as a capsule. It’s imprinted with “UCB 584 60 mg.”

Is Metadate Addictive?

Metadate is considered to be addictive, as are other prescription stimulants used in the treatment of ADHD. Metadate and other stimulants can have certain effects and can include increases in essential bodily functions like the heart rate, blood pressure and breathing. Stimulants can also create a euphoric high because they affect neurotransmitters like dopamine. That sense of euphoria can trigger a reward response in the brain, which then can lead to the development of an addiction. Other effects of Metadate that could lead to addiction include appetite suppression, increased alertness and energy, greater levels of focus and motivation, and increased sociability. Metadate, and other prescription stimulants, are perceived to improve academic performance, which is why this drug class if frequently abused by students.

If someone uses Metadate as it’s prescribed, they’re unlikely to become addicted. However, people who abuse it in high doses are at risk of developing an addiction, as well as a dependence. The DEA classifies methylphenidate as a Schedule II controlled substance. This classification indicates that it has a high potential for severe psychological and physical dependence. Other Schedule II drugs in the U.S. include Dexedrine and cocaine. If someone has a history of drug abuse or substance abuse, they should let their doctor know before using Metadate.

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