If you want to learn about Ritalin and drug tests, you've come to the right place. We pride ourselves on gathering all the facts and presenting them to you clearly and concisely. We'll answer all the common questions below, so you can learn all the facts for Ritalin and Ritalin drug testing.
What Is Ritalin?
As you already know, Ritalin is a prescription medication to treat ADHD and narcolepsy. Its principle ingredient is the generic drug methylphenidate. Unlike some other ADHD medications, Ritalin does not contain amphetamines, although methylphenidate does share some chemical properties.
Do Drug Tests Detect Ritalin?
Technically speaking, it's rarely tested for. Ritalin contains no amphetamines, so it's not covered by the standard 5-panel SAMHSA drug test. It's also rarely tested for in extended drug tests, but be wary of the possibility.
Unfortunately, there are some exceptions. First, methylphenidate (the active ingredient of Ritalin) is known to cause a false positive for amphetamines, especially on rapid tests. Secondly, there is a specific drug test. Many US colleges are moving toward specifically testing for drugs like Ritalin, because many students use them to increase academic performance.
How Long Does Ritalin Stay in the Body?
Ritalin doesn't stay in the body that long, but it can still cause problems with drug tests. Every case is different of course, with factors such as body size, lifestyle and so on all playing a role. The general opinion is that Ritalin is only detectable in a urine test for up to 48 hours after last use. For saliva tests, this is 12 hours. When it comes to hair tests, however, they can detect any drug they're looking for if it's been used in the past 90 days, at least if it wasn't a one-time use.
Should You Hide Your Ritalin Use?
That's entirely up to you. Some people are comfortable admitting they have ADHD or narcolepsy, while it makes others feel exposed or vulnerable. If you get a false positive for amphetamines, you may have to come clean. Fortunately, there are ways to avoid this happening in the first place, which we'll go into next.
How Do You Pass a Drug Test for Ritalin?
Whether you're being tested specifically for Ritalin or just avoiding a false positive for amphetamines, the process is the same. Below is a list of same-day solutions for passing the different types of drug tests.
Urine Drug Tests
The easiest way to pass a urine drug test is to consume a reputable detox drink shortly before giving a sample.
Hair Drug Tests
If you've been using Ritalin in the past 90 days, the only way to get it out of your hair is by using a special hair treatment.
Saliva Drug Tests
Saliva tests have a very short detection period, so you may well pass without help. That said, if you're tested within the 12-hour detection window, a detox mouthwash will get you through the test.
Looking for More Information?
Now you know the facts for Ritalin and Ritalin drug testing, you might want to browse our extensive article collection for more information on Ritalin, other drugs, drugs testing, and ways to get through drug tests.
