Ritalin/Focalin Infographic

Last Edited: February 26, 2020

Author
Patricia Howard, LMFT, CADC

Clinically Reviewed
Andrew Lancaster, LPC, MAC

All of the information on this page has been reviewed and certified by an addiction professional.

Ritalin (Methylphenidate) is a prescription Amphetamine that is primarily used to treat ADHD in children and adults. Amphetamines are a class of CNS stimulants (“uppers”) that are classified by their ability to increase neurotransmitter activity the brain by imitating Adrenaline, thus inducing symptoms such as increased hyperactivity, attention span, alertness and a decrease in appetite. Ritalin is a short-acting stimulant but can be taken in both immediate-release and extended-release dosages. Visit the Ritalin Page for more information.