The duration of Ritalin’s effects will depend primarily on the formulation of the drug you take. The duration of immediate-release Ritalin ranges from one to four hours, while the extended-release formulation lasts approximately 8 to 12 hours. [1] Other factors can affect how long Ritalin remains in your system, including your age, metabolism, dose, and overall health.

Ritalin has a relatively short half-life of two to three hours. [2] Even after the effects of Ritalin wear off, traces may remain in your system. Drug screenings such as saliva tests, urine tests, and hair follicle tests may be able to detect the presence of Ritalin in your system for days, weeks, or even months after taking Ritalin.

What Is Ritalin?

Ritalin is a brand name for the generic drug methylphenidate. [3] It’s FDA-approved to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, also known as ADHD, as well as narcolepsy. Ritalin is available in both immediate-release (short-acting) and extended-release (long-acting) formulations.

Ritalin has been classified by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) as a Schedule II controlled substance due to its high potential for abuse and addiction. [4] This central nervous system stimulant is available by prescription only.

Side Effects of Ritalin

Like most prescription drugs, Ritalin can cause some side effects. Those side effects commonly reported include: [5]

• Increased heart rate
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Dry mouth
• Nausea
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Anxiety
• Mood swings
• High blood pressure
• Indigestion
• Irritability
• Insomnia
• Vomiting
• Stomach pain
• Excessive sweating

For many people, the side effects of Ritalin are mild and may go away after a few days of taking the medication. If these side effects become intolerable or persist, tell your healthcare provider as soon as possible.

Serious Side Effects of Ritalin

Some potential side effects of Ritalin can be more serious. Call your doctor right away or seek emergency medical attention if you or a loved one is experiencing serious side effects of Ritalin, such as: [6]

• Chest pain
• Difficulty breathing
• Hallucinations
• Aggression or hostility
• Discoloration of skin
• Numbness in your arms or legs
• Unexplained wounds
• Prolonged, painful erection
• Feeling cold or shivering
• Muscle stiffness
• Muscle twitching
• Loss of coordination
• Diarrhea
• Fever

How Long Does Ritalin Last?

The immediate-release version of Ritalin is considered a short-acting stimulant. Its duration of action can vary between one and four hours. [7] The extended-release formulation lasts twice as long but is only taken once per day. Factors affecting how long Ritalin lasts include:

• The prescribed dose
• The formulation (immediate-release vs. extended-release)
• Age and metabolism
• Overall health (especially organ function)

How Long Does Ritalin Stay In Your System?

While you might stop feeling the effects of Ritalin after about four hours, it can remain in your system much longer.

Ritalin has a half-life of two to three hours. [8] Due to individual differences, it can remain in the system for up to two days. A urine or blood test may still detect the drug during this time.

Is Ritalin Addictive?

Ritalin has a high potential for addiction and abuse and is a controlled substance. People who misuse it or take higher doses are at increased risk of stimulant use disorder.

Signs of Substance Use Disorder

If you or someone you love has developed a stimulant use disorder, there may be signs of addiction, including: [9]

• Strong cravings for stimulant drugs
• Spending significant time obtaining or using stimulants
• Using in risky situations
• Relationship problems caused by stimulant use
• Continued use despite worsening mental or physical health
• Neglecting responsibilities
• Giving up important activities
• Inability to control dosage or duration
• Building tolerance
• Withdrawal symptoms after stopping

Two or more symptoms may indicate stimulant use disorder. The more symptoms present, the more severe the condition.

Ritalin Withdrawal Symptoms

Withdrawal symptoms when abstaining from Ritalin are a hallmark of stimulant use disorder. Symptoms of withdrawal include: [10]

• Cravings for stimulants
• Irritability
• Anxiety
• Insomnia
• Trouble concentrating
• Increased appetite or weight gain
• Paranoia
• Fatigue
• Suicidal thoughts

If you or a loved one is experiencing suicidal thoughts, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988.

Signs of Ritalin Overdose

Misuse or addiction increases the risk of overdose, which can lead to cardiac arrest, coma, or death. Recognize the signs of a stimulant overdose: [11]

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Dilated pupils
• Hallucinations
• Fast breathing
• Muscle pain or weakness
• Muscle twitching
• Lightheadedness or faintness
• Excessive sweating
• Tremor or shaking
• Confusion
• Pounding in the neck or ears
• Seizures or convulsions

Any overdose signs should be treated as a medical emergency. Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. You can also call the poison control helpline at 1-800-222-1222.

Ritalin Addiction Treatment

As a controlled substance, Ritalin has addictive properties. If you or a loved one becomes addicted, help is available. Many recover through evidence-based treatments. A skilled rehabilitation counselor can guide you through your options and create a personalized treatment plan. You don’t have to face addiction alone.