Is Ritalin addictive?
Although Ritalin is a stimulant, it does not have the same impact on the brain as cocaine or amphetamine. It is completely cleared from the nervous system in four hours. That is why the addictive potential is very small. One would have to take many tablets at once and even then, an affect similar to cocaine would be minimal. Long term use of Ritalin (3 years of constant use) can cause a small reduction in height. Short term side effects in a small percentage of children are: decreased appetite and sleep disturbances.
