Ritalin (Methylphenidate) is a mild CNS stimulant. In medicine, Ritalin's primary use is
             treatment of Attention DeficitHyperactive Disorder (ADHD). The mode of action in humans is
             not completely understood, but Ritalin presumably activates the arousal system of the brain
             stem and the cortex to produce its stimulant effect. Recently, the frequency of diagnosis for
             ADHD has increased dramatically. More children and an increasing number of adults are being
             diagnosed with ADHD. According to the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) (Bailey 1995),
             prescriptions for Ritalin have increased more than 600% in the past five years. Ritalin has a
             long history of controversy regarding side effects and potential for abuse, however it greatly
             Ritalin (Methylphenidate) is manufactured by CIBA-Geigy Corporation. It is supplied in 5
             mg., 10 mg., and 20 mg. tablets, and in a sustained release form, Ritalin SR, in 20 mg. tablets.
             It is readily water soluble and is intended for oral use. It is a Schedule II Controlled Substance
             under both the Federal and Vermont Controlled Substance Acts. Ritalin is primarily used in the
             treatment of Attention Deficit/Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD) (Bailey 1995).
             ADHD is a condition most likely based in an inefficiency and inadequacy of Dopamine
             and Norepinephrine hormone availability, typically occurring when a person with ADHD tries to
             concentrate. Ritalin improves the efficiency of the hormones Dopamine and Norepinephrine,
             increasing the resources for memory, focus, concentration and attention (Clark 1996). Ritalin
             has been used for more than 30 years to treat ADHD. Nervousness and insomnia are the most
             common adverse reactions reported, but are usually controlled by reducing dosage or omitting
             the afternoon or evening dose. Decreased appetite is also common but usually transient (Long
             1996). According to Clark (1996), children, adolescents and adults diagnosed with A...