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Methylphenidate (Ritalin)
Drug Testing
by Erowid
SUMMARY #
U.S. DRUG TESTING SUMMARY
Methylphenidate
Tested for in Standard Drug Tests?
NO
Tested for in Extended Drug Tests?
NO
Possible to Test for?
YES
Detection Period in Urine
1-2 days


TEST TYPES #
Urine Testing
Ritalin can be tested for in Urine, though it is not part of the SAMHSA-5 standard drug test.

FALSE POSITIVES #
Substances or Conditions which can cause false positives
Some rapid tests show false positives for amphetamine or methamphetamine for urine from users of methylphenidate.1

CAUTION & DISCLAIMER #
Erowid's drug testing information is a summary of data gathered from site visitors, journal articles, websites, and other resources. Detection periods depend on amount and frequency of use, metabolic rate, body mass, age, overall health, drug tolerance, and urine pH of each individual. Many substances that are not tested for in basic or extended urinalysis tests CAN be tested for by a laboratory willing to go to the trouble, although that is uncommon.

References #
  1. Manzi S, Law T, Shannon MW.. Methylphenidate produces a false-positive urine amphetamine screen. Pediatr Emerg Care. 2002 Oct;18(5):401. [PubMed]