How Long Does Ritalin Stay in Your System?
Ritalin is a prescription drug used to treat symptoms of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Ritalin is a central nervous system stimulant that affects neurotransmitters in the brain, including norepinephrine and dopamine. When someone uses Ritalin as prescribed, it’s intended to be part of a larger treatment plan that includes other non-medication therapies. Ritalin, despite its therapeutic uses, has a potential for abuse and addiction. Ritalin can be prescribed to children aged six years and older to treat ADHD. Along with immediate-release Ritalin, there are extended-release versions of the generic drug, methylphenidate. Ritalin can be used to treat narcolepsy as well.
Ritalin may or may not show up on a drug test. If a drug screening is looking for amphetamines, Ritalin is likely to show up. In a urine test, Ritalin would likely show up for anywhere from one to two days after someone used it. Blood tests aren’t used as often as urine tests because the window of detection is shorter. Ritalin would likely only show up in a blood test for up to 12 hours after it was used. In a hair follicle test, the detection window is the longest. The use of Ritalin could show up in a hair test for up to 90 days.
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Medical Disclaimer: The Recovery Village aims to improve the quality of life for people struggling with a substance use or mental health disorder with fact-based content about the nature of behavioral health conditions, treatment options and their related outcomes. We publish material that is researched, cited, edited and reviewed by licensed medical professionals. The information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider.
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