Ritalin

• What is Ritalin?
• Street Names
• How is it taken?
• What are the effects?
• What are the dangers?
• Is it addictive?

What is Ritalin?

• Ritalin is a medication prescribed for individuals (usually children) who have an abnormally high level of activity or attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
• Methylphenidate also is occasionally prescribed for treating narcolepsy.

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Street Names

"JIF," "MPH," "R-ball," "Skippy," "the smart drug," "vitamin R"
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How is it taken?

• Tablets are either taken orally or crushed and snorted.
  
• Some abusers dissolve the tablets in water and inject the mixture - however, complications can arise from this because insoluble fillers in the tablets can block small blood vessels.

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What are the effects?

• Methylphenidate is a stimulant. It has effects similar to, but more potent than, caffeine and less potent than amphetamines.
  
• It may provide stimulant effects: appetite suppression, wakefulness, increased focus/attentiveness, and euphoria.

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What are the dangers?

• Digestive problems.
  
• Tremor, loss of coordination.
  
• Irritability, anxiousness, restlessness, delirium, panic, paranoia, impulsive behavior, aggressiveness.
  
• Addiction.

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Is it addictive?

Yes, Ritalin is addictive.
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