Is Methylphenidate (Ritalin/Concerta) A Controlled Substance?

Medically Reviewed by Johnelle Smith, M.D. on September 2, 2022

Methylphenidate is a stimulant drug that is controlled due to its potential for abuse. Risks of methylphenidate misuse include seizures, panic attacks, and overdose death.

Medically Reviewed by
Johnelle Smith, M.D. on September 2, 2022
Is Methylphenidate A Controlled Substance?

Currently, methylphenidate drugs are controlled substances classified as Schedule II drugs, meaning that they have a high potential for abuse and physical dependence.

Methylphenidate, also known by its brand name Ritalin, is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant that is prescribed primarily to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

The Controlled Substances Act (CSA) of 1970 places all regulated substances under law into five schedules. This is based upon the drug’s medical use, potential for abuse, and safety.

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 Abuse

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 Abuse

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.

Get Help For Methylphenidate Drug Use

For more information about methylphenidate abuse treatment options, you can call our helpline today.

Our team of healthcare professionals can help you get on track to long-term sobriety from substance abuse.

This page does not provide medical advice. See more

Addiction Resource aims to provide only the most current, accurate information in regards to addiction and addiction treatment, which means we only reference the most credible sources available.

These include peer-reviewed journals, government entities and academic institutions, and leaders in addiction healthcare and advocacy. Learn more about how we safeguard our content by viewing our editorial policy.

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