Is Methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) A Controlled Substance?

Methylphenidate, more commonly known by the brand name Ritalin, is a central nervous system stimulant primarily prescribed to treat ADHD. Because it’s both highly effective for treating that condition and carries a real risk for misuse and physical dependence, it’s classified as a Schedule II controlled substance under the Controlled Substances Act, the same category reserved for drugs with high medical value alongside a high potential for misuse.

Knowing why methylphenidate carries this classification, and what its misuse can look like, is important for anyone prescribed the medication or concerned about a loved one’s use of it.

What Makes Methylphenidate A Controlled Substance?

Methylphenidate is a controlled substance due to its significant effectiveness in treating ADHD, as well as its high potential for abuse.

High Potential For Misuse

Ritalin is often misused as a recreational drug by crushing, snorting, or injecting the tablets. With Ritalin abuse, people experience heightened alertness and concentration.

Risk Of Physical Dependence

When taken repeatedly over a period of time, people can become physically dependent on the drug. This means that their body will go through symptoms of withdrawal if the drug is suddenly removed from the system.

What Drug Class Is Methylphenidate?

Methylphenidate belongs to a group of medicines called CNS stimulants. When taken, it increases attention and decreases restlessness in overactive and impulsive children and adults. Methylphenidate comes in immediate-release and extended-release tablets and may be listed under brand names such as Ritalin and Concerta. Other stimulant medications include dextroamphetamine drugs such as Adderall.

This drug is typically used as a part of a comprehensive treatment program that also may include social, educational, and psychological treatment.

When Did Methylphenidate Become A Controlled Substance?

In 1970, methylphenidate was classified as a Schedule III controlled substance. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) made the move to reclassify this drug in 2001 to a Schedule II substance. This occurred in large part because of the way methylphenidate medications such as Ritalin were abused recreationally in the 1990s.

Signs Of Methylphenidate Addiction

Stimulants such as methylphenidate increase the dopamine levels in the brain. This helps people with conditions such as ADHD or narcolepsy by keeping dopamine levels at a healthy amount. When people who don’t have ADHD take methylphenidate, their dopamine levels will be at a much higher amount and result in a euphoric-like sensation. Over time, misusing methylphenidate in this way may lead to addiction.

Side effects of abuse include:

• weight loss
• agitation
• insomnia
• dry mouth
• wakefulness
• mood swings
• intense cravings
• neglecting responsibilities
• experiencing withdrawal symptoms
• taking the drug in large amounts for longer than prescribed

People with an addiction to methylphenidate often benefit from treatment programs that feature cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other types of behavioral therapy. They may also be prescribed non-addictive ADHD medication called Strattera that is provided as a healthier alternative to using Ritalin or other stimulants.

Dangers Of Methylphenidate Addiction

There are several health risks and dangers associated with methylphenidate addiction.

Health risks include:

• changes in blood pressure
• altered heart rate
• nausea
• hallucinations
• the onset of mental health disorders
• agitation
• fatigue
• respiratory depression

The risks of methylphenidate abuse may be exacerbated if they’re combined with other substances such as Oxycontin, methadone, ketamine, codeine, methamphetamine, or alcohol.

Treatment Options For Methylphenidate Misuse

If you or someone you love has developed a dependence on methylphenidate, treatment options are available to help. Many addiction treatment centers offer therapy-based approaches, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), to address the thought patterns and behaviors tied to stimulant misuse. In some cases, switching to a non-stimulant ADHD medication like Strattera may be recommended as a safer long-term option for managing symptoms without the same risk for misuse.

Because methylphenidate misuse can sometimes occur alongside mental health issues, dual diagnosis treatment may be necessary to address any co-occurring conditions.