Is Ritalin more addictive than Adderall? Commonly known as “study drugs” these medications increase wakefulness, focus, and attentiveness and are therefore commonly misused by students. ADHD drugs are also misused for their side effects which include feelings of euphoria and appetite suppression. Ritalin and Adderall are two of the more common brand-name prescription stimulants used for treating ADHD (attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder) and narcolepsy (uncontrollable deep sleep.)

bunch of pills on a light pink background

Ritalin vs. Adderall – is one more addictive than the other?

Is Ritalin More Addictive Than Adderall?

Ritalin and Adderall are both stimulant medications that affect your central nervous system by increasing the levels of two specific neurotransmitters, norepinephrine and dopamine. This increase in neurotransmitters speeds up your brain activity, affecting your wakefulness and concentration.

About 80% of people will benefit from taking stimulants to treat symptoms of ADHD. Some people react the same to either drug, while others may have better results with Ritalin vs. Adderall or vice versa.

Ritalin is available in immediate-release tablets, sustained-release tablets, or long-acting capsules. Immediate-release tablets last about 2-4 hours and are typically taken two to three times per day. The extended-release drugs work by entering the bloodstream more slowly, releasing some medication right away, and a steady dose over the remaining time. Their effects last four to six hours or eight to ten hours, respectively. Sustained-release tablets are not as common, with more individuals preferring the longer-lasting Ritalin LA which is taken once per day.

When misused, either drug can become addictive.

Common Side Effects

Ritalin is the brand name for methylphenidate while Adderall is the brand name for a mix of two stimulants called amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. Though they serve the same purpose and have similar side effects, the drugs can affect a person differently.

As with other drugs, Ritalin and Adderall have a risk of side effects that may be more or less severe depending on the person.

Adderall Side Effects

  • Anorexia
  • Insomnia
  • Abdominal pain
  • Diarrhea
  • Emotional lability
  • Dizziness, Nausea and Vomiting
  • Nervousness
  • Agitation
  • Fever
  • Weight loss
  • Dry mouth
  • Headache
  • Anxiety
  • Tachycardia
  • Arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat)
  • Asthenia (weakness or lack of energy)
  • Urinary tract infections
  • Priapism (prolonged erections)
  • Hypertension (high blood pressure)
  • Visual disturbances

Ritalin Side Effects

  • Insomnia
  • Nervousness
  • CNS overstimulation
  • Anorexia
  • Weight loss
  • Abdominal pain
  • Dizziness and Nausea
  • Headache
  • Rash
  • Priapism (prolonged erections)
  • Hypertension (high blood pressure)
  • Tachycardia
  • Arrhythmia
  • Visual disturbances

nurse studying, and holding pills in her hand.

Is Ritalin Addictive?

Classified as a Schedule II controlled substance by the FDA, Ritalin can become addictive, particularly when misused. Schedule II drugs are considered dangerous and have a significant possibility for abuse which may lead to acute psychological or physical dependence.

Of particular concern to parents of children who are being treated with Ritalin is whether their children may be more susceptible to drug or alcohol abuse later in life. Thus far, studies have found no differences in the rate of later-onset substance abuse between children with ADHD who received treatment compared to those who did not. Meaning that a child who is prescribed Ritalin to treat their ADHD symptoms is not more vulnerable to substance abuse and addiction once they’re older.

Abuse Statistics

Prescription stimulants such as Ritalin and Adderall are misused for weight loss, recreational purposes, or for helping with school work. Misusing prescription drugs includes taking medications that were not prescribed to you, taking them in a way or dosage that is not in accordance with your prescription, or taking them with the intention of getting high.

Ritalin

Because one of the side effects of Ritalin is appetite suppression, individuals will misuse Ritalin by taking it for weight loss purposes. Others will misuse Ritalin for recreational purposes. By crushing pills and snorting or mixing with water and injecting, the rapid and intense manner in which dopamine levels increase creates a “rush” or feeling of euphoria similar to drugs like methamphetamine.

Most commonly though, Ritalin has been misused as a “study drug.” Students will take it to help them study and do schoolwork because it increases alertness, attention, and focus. Ritalin abuse statistics indicate that each year approximately 4% of older teens and young adults misuse study drugs such as Ritalin and Adderall.

Adderall

Originally thought to be misused primarily by older children and teens, newer studies revealed that 60 percent of Adderall misuse was among 18-to-25-year-olds. These Adderall abuse statistics aren’t surprising if you think about it. The college-aged subset of the population is particularly vulnerable to all three reasons for misuse.

Despite the numerous consequences of prescription stimulant abuse, the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse (CASA) reports up to twenty percent (20%) of college students have misused Adderall or Ritalin.

desk with 4 college age students sitting and listening.

Sixty percent of Adderall misuse is among 18 to 25-year-olds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a generic version available for both Adderall and Ritalin?

Yes, both have a generic version.

What forms does it come in?

Both have a Short-acting tablet and a Long-acting capsule. Ritalin also has a sustained-release tablet, but it is not as common.

Is there a risk of withdrawal symptoms?

Yes, either of these stimulants can cause withdrawal symptoms if stopped abruptly and without consulting your doctor.

Is there a risk of addiction or potential for misuse?

Yes, both are Schedule II drugs with a significant potential for abuse and addiction.

Can I breastfeed while taking Ritalin or Adderall?

Studies have shown that both Ritalin and Adderall pass through breast milk. Speak with your doctor to determine if you should discontinue your medication or discontinue breastfeeding.

Can I take Adderall or Ritalin while pregnant?

Both of these ADHD drugs are considered Category C drugs meaning that animal studies have shown an effect on the fetus, but there have not been any or enough studies done on humans to have a definitive answer. Medications in this category are often prescribed only if the benefit outweighs the risk. Speak to your doctor to determine what’s right for you.

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Treatment for Adderall or Ritalin addiction is possible.

Addiction Treatment for Stimulants

If you’re abusing Ritalin or suffering from Adderall addiction, call St. John’s Recovery Place today at 833-397-3422. Our treatment center is a fully equipped medical detox and rehabilitation facility offering comprehensive care for substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health disorders. Providing residential treatment, our holistic approach to rehabilitation addresses not only your addiction but all facets of your physical and mental health. Call and speak to our admissions staff today to see how we can help with your Adderall or Ritalin addiction.

SOURCES:

  • Rolland, Amber and Smith, Patricia. Aided by Adderall: Illicit Use of ADHD Medications by College Students. (2017, Fall.) (2021, August 4.)
  • Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. Adderall Misuse Rising Among Young Adults. (2016, February 16.) (2021, August 4.)
  • Morris, Susan York. Adderall vs. Ritalin: What’s the Difference? (2019, January 28.) (2021, August 4.)
  • Langmaid, Stephanie. Adderall vs. Ritalin: The Differences Explained. (2021, June 14.) (2021, August 4.)
  • National Institute on Drug Abuse. Stimulant ADHD Medications: Methylphenidate and Amphetamines. (2014, January.) (2021, August 4.)
  • Wolpert, Stuart. Are children who take Ritalin for ADHD at greater risk of future drug abuse? 2013, May 29.) (2021, August 4.)
  • Benhayon, David MD, Ph.D. ADHD Medications: Basic. (2021, August 4.)
  • MedlinePlus. Dextroamphetamine and Amphetamine. (2019, April 15.) (2021, August 4.)
  • Sussman S, Pentz MA, Spruijt-Metz D, Miller T. Misuse of “study drugs:” prevalence, consequences, and implications for policy. (2006, June 9.) (2021, August 4.)
  • DEA. Drug Scheduling. (2021, August 4.)