Is it dangerous to snort Ritalin and Adderall?

Dear Adderall Addict,

Ritalin, or methylphenidate, and Adderall, or dextroamphetamine-amphetamine, are prescription medications used to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. They increase the amount of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which can make someone without ADHD feel energized, happy, or hyperactive. However, these drugs can increase blood pressure and cause anxiety, insomnia, and mood swings. Snorting the drugs, rather than taking them orally, can put you at a higher risk of overdosing or becoming dependent.  

As an aside, Ritalin and Adderall are the brand names for these drugs. While this response uses those terms to make it easier to read and understand, please note that the discussion applies to all brands of methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine-amphetamine.  

What are Ritalin and Adderall?  

Ritalin and Adderall are central nervous system (CNS) stimulants, sometimes known as “uppers,” which is why some people feel energized after taking them. They both work by increasing the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. ADHD and narcolepsy are associated with dysfunction of these neurotransmitters. This is why these drugs can help reduce symptoms of hyperactivity and inattention. Cocaine also increases dopamine concentration in the brain, which is why it might produce similar effects for you.  

Are there risks associated with using these drugs if you don’t have ADHD?  

When someone without ADHD takes these drugs, they might overstimulate their brain with dopamine or norepinephrine, causing hyperactivity, mania, and euphoria (extreme happiness). Therefore, even if you’re taking an “average dose,” you might still become mentally or physically dependent on it.  

These drugs are often prescribed with individual factors in mind, like height, weight, age, and other health issues. There are general risks to misusing Adderall and Ritalin, as well as those specific to snorting.  

The general risks include:  

• Nervous system and cardiovascular side effects:  Adderall and Ritalin increase heart rate and raise blood pressure. Since these drugs stimulate the central nervous system, they can also cause dizziness, restlessness, and tics. 
• Mood side effects: People might also experience anxiety, insomnia, serious mood swings, irritability, and depression. In more severe cases, the drugs can cause manic symptoms or psychosis, including an altered perception of reality or hallucinations. 
• Dependence:  The body can become dependent on Adderall and Ritalin, making it difficult to stop using them. As someone builds a tolerance to a drug, they might find they need larger doses to achieve the same effects, especially if they’re using it recreationally. When they stop taking the drugs, they may experience withdrawals and find it difficult to motivate themselves and function without the drug.  

Even if a drug can be prescribed in a medical setting, it doesn’t mean it will be “safe” when it’s used recreationally. 

What are the risks of snorting Adderall and Ritalin? 

When drugs are snorted, the effects are often felt more quickly and strongly. Since all of the drug hits you at once, it raises the risk of overdose. Strong, immediate effects can also make drug dependence more likely. Snorting these drugs can increase the potential risks of other medication you may take. Snorting can also damage the nostrils and cause bleeding.  

If you continue to take Adderall and Ritalin, taking the drugs orally can reduce your risk of overdose or dependence. If you choose to snort them, you using harm reduction approaches may lower your risks.  Crushing the drugs as finely as possible can reduce damage to your nostrils. Using new, clean supplies can prevent bacteria or other people’s blood from causing an infection. You can rinse the inside of the nostril after snorting to reduce irritation. Vitamin E oral or saline spray can help damaged nasal skin heal.  

How can you address stimulant dependence? 

If you’re frequently using Adderall and Ritalin, you might find it difficult to stop. Withdrawals happen because the brain has adjusted to high levels of dopamine and norepinephrine. Your “normal” levels will feel like low levels. Adderall withdrawal isn’t life-threatening, but it can be extremely unpleasant. Symptoms include:  

• Depressive episodes   
• Drug cravings  
• Emotional numbness  
• Extreme fatigue 
• Mood swings 
• Problems with concentration and focus  

List adapted from VeryWell Mind  

The biggest risk of an Adderall withdrawal is a severe depressive episode. Contact a health care provider if you begin experiencing suicidal thoughts or behaviors.  

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You’re taking an important first step by reflecting upon your stimulant use. If you’re concerned you’re an “Adderall Addict,” you might consider changing how you take them or limiting the amount you take. If you need additional support, working with a health care professional or mental health care provider can help manage withdrawal symptoms, address cravings, and wean off the drugs.