Rubifen (psychopharmaceutical): what it is, what it is used for and side effects

Today a large part of the population knows or has heard of the attention deficit hyperactivity disorder or ADHD, a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by problems sustaining attention and the presence of hyperactivity and impulsivity.

However, what is not usually so well known is that basically these problems (by the way, involuntary and out of the control of the minor, not being something voluntary) are associated with slowing in the development of the frontal, which governs executive functions, including abilities such as inhibition behavioral.

Although psychoeducational and psychological approaches always go or should be prioritized, they are sometimes prescribed drugs that activate the frontal areas, facilitating better control of the situation in cases where it is considered necessary. One of these drugs is Rubifen, which we are going to talk about throughout this article..

What is Rubifen?

Rubifen is the name of a psychoactive drug, a substance with psychoactive properties of a stimulant nature in moderate degree, which is used mainly in the treatment of attention deficit disorder with hyperactivity.

It is one of the drugs synthesized based on methylphenidate, its active principle, which in turn is a product related to amphetamines. It works by causing the activation of areas of the brain that in those people to whom it is prescribed are usually hypoactivated. That is why, although it is stimulating in people with certain neurodevelopmental disorders in fact it usually causes them to be calmer.

Although it is frequently used in children, it is generally not used unless other types of (non-pharmacological) therapy fail, and it should be performed a periodic control of the state of cardiovascular health and growth due to the possible side effects and problems that may arise through its consumption. However, in some cases it may be necessary and facilitate better psychosocial development, specifically in the most extreme cases and in which functionality is very limited.

Likewise, the use of drugs of this type is subject to strong controversy due to overdiagnosis of the disorders that justify its use, sometimes being applied to people who had not actually used it needy. It is therefore essential to carry out a thorough assessment before ruling on the use of Rubifen and similar drugs, especially when we talk about children, in the growth stage.

Rubifen can be found in different presentations, mainly capsules and tablets, either immediate or prolonged release.. In general, it lasts between two and four hours and is eliminated mainly through the kidneys, although to a lesser extent also through the feces.

Unfortunately Rubifen is also known for being used as a stimulant drug, easily giving rise to situations of abuse and dependency despite being marketed only by prescription. In fact, it is sometimes called "the cocaine of the poor", and this can have severe repercussions on health when used recreationally.

Main indications

Rubifen is a drug whose main therapeutic indication is attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, although as we have indicated it is only used if other strategies fail. It is necessary to take into account, however, that nor can it be used by all children with this problem, since if certain symptoms occur, the use of this drug could make them worse (for example, tics and mannerisms). It is used in children over six years of age, and is not indicated for children under that age or adults with ADHD.

It may come as a surprise that a known disorder of impulsivity and hyperactivity has as its drug an activating substance and stimulating, but this is because in ADHD some areas of the brain are hypoactivated (especially the prefrontal) and functions such as behavioral inhibition, planning, or even attention and concentration have not yet been fully developed. neurotypical. Thus, Rubifen activates these areas, facilitating impulse control.

Although it is not an approved indication, this drug has also been used on occasions to treat cases of narcolepsy, even in adult subjects.

Mechanism of action

The Rubifen, and the methylphenidate In general, it exerts its activity through an activating mechanism of action that has effects in the brainstem and cortex.

This mechanism of action is not completely understood, but its operation is based on the inhibition of the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine and the stimulation of their synthesis. That is, by preventing these monoamines from being reuptaken by the presynaptic neuron, dopamine and norepinephrine remain in the synaptic space and therefore can be used. The levels of these two neurotransmitters increase, which causes brain activity to also increase. This drug seems especially relevant in its effects on the prefrontal, something that contributes to improving the functioning of executive functions and attention.

In addition to this, it also has a minor effect on serotonin, increasing it slightly, something that can be used to better control the symptoms of disorders such as narcolepsy.

Side effects

Although Rubifen is an effective drug for treating ADHD symptoms, its use can carry a number of unpleasant side effects and even risks.

Among the different side effects we can find decreased appetite, insomnia, headache, weight loss, nausea and vomiting erythema, growth retardation or tics. It can also generate affective lability or even mania in some cases. In addition to this, uncontrolled speech and movements, confusion, spasms, speech problems, blurred vision, increased irritability or constipation may arise.

Other less common side effects may include agitation, rapid heartbeat, dryness, priapism or erectile dysfunction, confusion, cardiovascular problems, dyskinesia and seizures, although these are more serious and may require medical attention. Finally, it can reduce the number of blood cells, cause arterial inflammation, liver problems and thought disorders. Very rarely it can cause heart attacks and vascular accidents. It is for all these reasons that it is necessary that if used, a medical control of the subject must be carried out.

contraindications

Rubifen can be effective, but it cannot be taken by everyone: there are sectors of the population that have it contraindicated as it can be dangerous for them.

People with allergies or hypersensitivity to methylphenidate should avoid their consumption, those who suffer from narrow-angle glaucoma or people with a history of cardiovascular problems or cerebrovascular. It should also be avoided in the case of Tourette's disorder or tics, since as a possible side effect tics and stereotyped movements may be enhanced. Those who suffer from thyroid problems or anorexia nervosa (since the drug reduces the feeling of hunger). In addition it is contraindicated in psychotic disorders, bipolarity or in subjects who have suicidal thoughts. It should also be avoided by patients with kidney or liver problems, high blood pressure, or swallowing difficulties.

Pregnant and lactating women also have it contraindicated, since drug transmissions in milk have been seen as well as cases of respiratory toxicity in babies and fetuses. It is also recommended to avoid its consumption during puberty, as it can cause growth problems, and also under six years of age.