Ritalin is a stimulant medication prescribed to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). You may be familiar with the term “speed,” a common street name for Ritalin. Ritalin, or methylphenidate, raises dopamine levels in the brain. It is effective at treating ADHD but can have serious side effects as well as strong potential for abuse. Ritalin has some of the same effects as taking cocaine. Both drugs block the dopamine transporter protein, and there is evidence that children who take Ritalin are more likely to use cocaine as adults. The United States has the highest rates of Ritalin consumption.

Ritalin is a popular drug among teenagers because it is easier to obtain than other substances. College students also favor Ritalin, seeking an enhanced ability to focus on their academic work. Because of the drug’s popularity among underage people, adults should become educated about the medication and learn the street names for Ritalin in order to prevent abuse and addiction.

Street Names for Ritalin

A street name for Ritalin may be used to conceal drug abuse and illegal sale of the medication. If someone you care about is struggling with drug abuse and addiction, you will notice changes in their behavior including deceptive tactics used to cover up the abuse and get more of the substance. Purchasing drugs will put a financial strain on a family, and addiction will become an obsession that influences the user to place drug use over their old priorities.

By learning to recognize Ritalin street names, you may be able to intervene before drug abuse becomes drug addiction. Ritalin is most commonly referred to as:

• Uppers
• Jif
• R-ball
• Smart drug
• West Coast
• Rids
• Skittles
• Diet Coke
• Kiddy Coke
• Pineapple
• Vitamin R
• Kibbles & Bits

If you hear a child in your life using these terms, it could be time to take action and talk to them about drug abuse and addiction.

Find a Rehab for Ritalin Addiction

At BetterAddictionCare, we understand that a personalized plan for drug addiction treatment will offer the best chance for long-term recovery. If you need help weighing your long-term care options and finding an affordable rehab center near you, we can help. Our addiction treatment specialists can assess your needs and help you find a treatment center that fits you. If you are ready to get sober and start healing, call today or fill out our contact form. BetterAddictionCare is here for you.