Whatis Ritalin? Howis Ritalin abused? Individuals who abuse the drug, however, risk binge use, psychotic Ritalin, a trade name for the pre- Individuals who abuse Ritalin either episodes, cardiovascular complica- scription drug methylphenidate, is a swallow the tablets or crush them to tions, and severe psychological addic- central nervous system stimulant. produce a powder, which is snorted. tion. In addition, abusers who inject (Its effects are similar to, but more Some abusers dissolve the tablets in the drug risk further complications potent than, caffeine and less potent water and then inject the mixture. because insoluble fillers in Ritalin than amphetamine.) Ritalin often is tablets can block small blood vessels. prescribed to treat individuals Whoabuses Ritalin? Injection users also place themselves (mostly children) who are diagnosed at risk of contracting HIV (human with ADD (attention deficit disorder) Abuse of Ritalin typically is associated with young people—preadolescents, immunodeficiency virus), hepatitis B or ADHD (attention deficit hyperac- and C, and other blood-borne viruses. tivity disorder). teenagers, and young adults. The increased use of the drug to treat Ritalin is abused for the stimulant ADHD—a disorder that is prevalent effects it produces, including appetite among young people—has resulted in suppression, wakefulness, euphoria, a corresponding increase in abuse. The StreetTerms for Ritalin and increased focus and attentiveness. University of Michigan’s Monitoring the Kibbles and bits Future Survey indicates that 4 percent Kiddy cocaine Whatdoes Ritalin look like? of high school seniors in the United Pineapple States abused the drug at least once in Ritalin is available in 5-, 10-, and Skippy the past year. 20-milligram tablets. The tablets Smarties typically are white or yellow in color. Although less common, Ritalin is Vitamin R abused among adults as well. The Drug West coast Howis Ritalin obtained? Enforcement Administration has received reports of Ritalin abuse among The Ritalin that is abused in the diverse segments of the population— Street Terms for injectingRitalin United States typically is diverted ranging from healthcare professionals with the prescription from legitimate sources. In some to street addicts. pain reliever Talwin cases abusers obtain the drug from Crackers peers, friends, or family members. Whatare the risks? One and ones Often individuals who have legitimate Ritz and Ts prescriptions sell or give away their When taken as directed by a physician supply. Ritalin also is acquired to treat a legitimate medical condition, Set through theft—from individuals with Ritalin has proven to be a safe and Ts and rits legitimate prescriptions or from school effective medication. Medical studies Ts and Rs medicine dispensaries. have shown that individuals who have ADHD and who take Ritalin orally in proper dosages do not become addicted to the drug. Otherproducts of interest: , Huffing—The Abuse of Inhalants , Prescription Drug Abuse and Youth , Drugs,Youth, and the Internet Ritalin

DEA Ritalin 5 mg. Fast FactsFacts Is abusing Ritalin illegal? Yes, abusing Ritalin is illegal. Ritalin is a Schedule II substance under the Controlled Substances Act. Schedule II drugs, which include cocaine and methamphet- For more information on illicit drugs amine, have a high potential for abuse. Abuse of these drugs may check out our web site at: lead to severe psychological or physical dependence. www.usdoj.gov/ndic National Drug Intelligence Center Check out Fast Facts on: 319 Washington Street, 5th Floor Johnstown, PA 15901-1622 + , , Crack cocaine , Marijuana Telephone: 814-532-4601 Crystal MDMA FAX: 814-532-4690 methamphetamine , Methadone NDIC Washington Liaison Office , Drug-facilitated , Methamphetamine 8201 Greensboro Drive, Suite 1001 sexual assault , Methamphetamine McLean, VA 22102-3840 , Telephone: 703-556-8970 Drug paraphernalia laboratory hazards FAX: 703-556-7807 , DXM , OxyContin , , NDIC publications are available on the following web sites: , Fentanyl , PCP Foxy Powdered cocaine ADNET http://ndicosa QuestionsQuestions , Fry , Prescription drugs LEO home.leo.gov/lesig/ndic , GHB and analogs , Psilocybin RISS ndic.riss.net , , INTERNET www.usdoj.gov/ndic andand , Heroin , Rohypnol , Inhalants , Salvia divinorum Call814-532-4541 AnswersAnswers , Jimsonweed , Steroids to request NDIC products , Ketamine , Teens and drugs National Drug Intelligence Center , Khat , Triple C a component of the LSD Yaba NDIC Product No. 2003-L0559-026 U.S. Department of Justice

Cover photo: DEA. Ritalin 20 mg. 092303