Stimulants: Methylphenidate

What is it?

Methylphenidate is the most commonly prescribed central nervous stimulant use to treat ADHD. It may also be used to treat a sleep disorder called narcolepsy.

Brand/Commercial Names

Ritalin®

Street Names

JIF
MPH
R-ball
Skippy
The Smart Drug
Vitamin R

Looks Like

Tablets

How it is Administered/Used

Injected
Swallowed
Snorted

Dangerous Because

Serious side effects include: Increased blood pressure, heart rate and body temperature; feelings of hostility and paranoia; serious cardiovascular complications, including stroke, dilated pupils

Teen Usage

1 in 10 teens have abused Adderall or Ritalin

Important to Know

Many teens abuse prescribed stimulant medication to help them cram for exams or suppress their appetite.

Signs of Abuse

Decreased sleep and appetite, increased alertness, attention span, energy