Concerta is typically used to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, but, as with many prescription medications, this drug has attributes that are appealing to people that do not have ADHD. It is similar to Ritalin and Adderall, all of which are highly controlled. While Concerta does create a feeling of ecstasy, those who abuse it typically are seeking the surge of adrenaline and sharp focus it delivers more.
How do you stop someone from abusing Concerta? This can be challenging, especially since these stimulants have been coined “study drugs.” Many teens and young adults use it to help them focus during activities such as completing work projects or studying. So how do you help your loved one stop abusing drugs when the fear of failure prevents him or her from quitting the drug? You can start by informing them of the consequences of a Concerta addiction.
Concerta Addiction and Abuse
Before you approach anyone struggling with substance use disorder and addiction, it can be helpful to learn as much as you can about Concerta abuse and what it takes to fight it. We can help you prepare for this challenging, yet rewarding battle. Concerta is used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It is a nervous system stimulant. It is also used to treat narcolepsy, which is an uncontrollable desire for sleep.
Concerta is similar to cocaine, which makes it very addictive. It affects chemicals in the brain and nervous system including essential hormones like dopamine and norepinephrine. Furthermore, it is a used commonly used among teens and college students, because it allows for sharp focus and continued studying. It can also help with weight loss and suppress the appetite.
The drug is water-soluble, which makes it easy to convert to liquid so it can be injected. Using substances intravenously allows it to hit the system quickly and results in an increase of energy and feelings of euphoria.
Signs and Symptoms of Concerta Abuse
When Concerta is crushed, it eliminates the timed-release mechanism of the drug. All of the methylphenidate in the pill is delivered to the brain at once. An individual may be using Concerta if they show the following signs: Messy appearance, or lack of care for personal hygiene
- Track marks on arms or legs
- Reckless driving, car accidents, or unexplained dents in the car
- Secretive phone calls
- Avoiding eye contact
- Erratic behavior or mood swings
- Loss of interest in extracurricular activities, hobbies, or sports
- Poor grades; no desire to do homework
Side Effects of Concerta
- Increased blood pressure and heartbeat
- Hostility and paranoia
- Periods of increased attention and wakefulness
- Nervousness
- Trouble sleeping
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Headache
Overdose Symptoms of Concerta
- Sudden outbursts of words or sounds that are hard to control
- Vision changes
- Hallucinations
- Symptoms of heart attack or stroke such as pain in the chest, jaw, or left arm; shortness of breath; unusual sweating; weakness on one side of the body
- Seizure
- Fainting
- Uncontrolled muscle movements such as twitching or shaking
- Numbness, pain, skin color change, or sensitivity to temperature in the fingers or toes
Concerta Withdrawal and Detox
When an individual goes through withdrawal, it can be uncomfortable, but it is not life-threatening. The severity of withdrawal will depend upon how long the individual has been addicted to Concerta and how much of the drug is consumed regularly.
The addicted person might have a rough time and want to start taking the drug again in order to find relief. It is important for you to call us so we can help you find a drug treatment center. This is essential for the recovery of the family member or friend addicted to Concerta. He or she will be less likely to relapse with medical professionals available to help during the detoxification process. Some of the withdrawal symptoms include:
- Extreme fatigue
- Panic attacks
- Crankiness
- Extreme hunger
- Depression
- Nightmares
Several good inpatient rehab centers have drug detox treatment in their facilities that allow you to remove these toxins.
Codeine Treatment and Rehab
At Sunshine Behavioral Health, we understand the importance of adolescent-specific treatment. We are intimately familiar with treatment types designed to help the individual overcome addiction. Our counselors are sensitive to the needs of those addicted to Concerta.
Call and talk with one of our counselors, you have many options to help you make an informed decision about the best treatment.
The Rehab Treatment Process
When you arrive at your facility you will be assessed by the medical professionals to determine your treatment through detox, as well as your rehabilitation program.
- Step 1: Intake – When you arrive at your facility you will be assessed by the medical professionals to determine your treatment through detox, as well as your rehabilitation program.
- Step 2: Detox – After your assessment or intake, you will be taken to your room where you can rest and be monitored while you go through the withdrawal of your drug use. Detox can range from 1 day to a week, depending on the drug of choice and the user.
- Step 3: Rehab – After you finish detox you will be ready to begin your addiction treatment, which can range from a variety of different options. This is when you will be able to meet others, attend lectures, participate in group or individual counseling, and learn the tools you need to stay clean.
- Step 4: Aftercare – When your time at the facility is over, you will have to go back to your life. This can be a challenge for a lot of people, but part of your treatment includes aftercare. This is usually outpatient counseling in a group or individualized setting, where you are slowly introduced back to your life and responsibilities
Addressing Concerta Addiction
Your biggest obstacle might be helping a loved one admit he or she has a drug addiction. Do not get discouraged. They might be in denial, especially if he or she has only been abusing Concerta for a short period of time. Addressing the following concerns with the addicted individual might motivate them to seek help in the form of rehabilitation.
- Fear –they might be apprehensive about what the treatment program involves and perhaps they are afraid they cannot handle it
- Loss of supply –they realize there is no access to drugs while in treatment for their substance use disorder
- Stigma –they might be embarrassed to tell friends
- Hope that the problem will resolve itself –it is common for a person to ignore a problem
Helping a friend or family member address their Concerta addiction
Helping a loved one decide to seek treatment for addiction is never easy. You may feel like it’s not for you to decide, but often, without encouragement from people like you, those who need addiction treatment never really seek it out. So, without force, and with all the love you have for your loved one, helping them to decide to seek treatment can turn out to be a life saver.
When in doubt, call us at Sunshine Behavioral Health. We can help you understand what your loved one is going through, and will even be available if your friend or family member would rather not talk to you about seeking treatment.
The Bottom Line: You Can Beat Concerta Addiction
If you’ve reached this point it is hard to deny the fact that you’re serious about beating your Concerta addiction, and that is something to have pride in and celebrate. Your life matters and there is no reason why you should allow a drug to dictate the rest of your life when help is available.
Remember, choosing to go into a Concerta rehab treatment center for substance use disorder will help you heal from the drug effects you’ve had to endure, extend your life, and, most importantly, place you on track to regaining your life. So don’t fight addiction alone. Instead, allow us to help you live the life you deserve to have.
Payment Options for Concerta Abuse Treatment
Are you afraid you will not be able to afford the cost of rehab? Think about what your recovery is worth to you. More than likely, it will be less than the cost of your addiction. Your recovery will last you a lifetime.
How much you will have to pay depends on a number of factors:
- Your insurance plan
- Addiction type
- Treatment type
- Length of stay
- Location of treatment center
- Amenities provided
Each insurance plan is different. Our representatives can contact your insurance and give you a free quote. Call now and start your road towards recovery!!
Medical disclaimer:
Sunshine Behavioral Health strives to help people who are facing substance abuse, addiction, mental health disorders, or a combination of these conditions. It does this by providing compassionate care and evidence-based content that addresses health, treatment, and recovery.
Licensed medical professionals review material we publish on our site. The material is not a substitute for qualified medical diagnoses, treatment, or advice. It should not be used to replace the suggestions of your personal physician or other health care professionals.