Ritalin is a well-known drug that doctors prescribe to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and the sleep disorder narcolepsy. It is a stimulant that can cause euphoria and feelings of vigilance but when abused can lead to addiction and negative side effects.
The half-life of methylphenidate, the active ingredient in Ritalin, is 3.5 hours on average with a range of 1.3-7.7 hours in adults and 2.5 hours in children. This means that the drug is eliminated from your system fairly quickly even when taken in high doses. However, the speed at which it is eliminated from your body varies from person to person. Your age can also have an impact on how long the drug stays in your system as metabolizing and eliminating drugs tends to slow down as we get older.
It takes a few days for Ritalin to clear from your urine after you’ve used it. However, it can show up in your hair for 90 days after use because it’s a water-soluble drug that doesn’t stick to fat cells like some drugs do.
Blood tests are rarely used to test for Ritalin because it leaves the body relatively quickly. However, it can be found in your saliva because ritalinic acid, the main metabolite of Ritalin, is detected by a saliva test.
Getting professional help for addiction is the best way to overcome your Ritalin use and begin a new life in sobriety. At an inpatient drug rehab, you can receive around-the-clock care and support as you work toward your recovery goals.