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Methylphenidate sold as cocaine
Risk assessment
A sample declared as cocaine did not contain cocaine, but methylphenidate (Ritalin). Methylphenidate is primarily prescribed for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. Taking methylphenidate increases the concentration of the neurotransmitters dopamine, noradrenaline and serotonin in the brain, which leads to a stimulating, energizing and drive-enhancing effect.
Although both substances have stimulant properties, there are differences in duration of action and potency, which is why there is a risk of overdosing. Methylphenidate lasts longer than cocaine (approx. 4-6 hours vs. 30-90 minutes nasally) and has a slower onset of action, which can lead to repeated top-ups. In addition, methylphenidate is typically dosed lower than cocaine - a habitual cocaine dose could lead to unintended strong effects.
Higher doses of methylphenidate can lead to seizures, cardiac arrhythmia, headaches and confusion. There are always misdeclarations and impurities in powders and crystalline samples; it is therefore essential to have these tested in a drug check before consumption!
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Safer Use
Analysis
Have your substances tested in a Drug Checking
Testing
If you do not have the possibility to have substances analysed, always test a small amount to avoid overdoses.
Wait and see
Wait 2 hours after oral intake, as there are always powders / crystals in circulation with unexpected active ingredients, which can have a later onset of action.
Utensils
When snorting or injecting powders, always use your own equipment to avoid infecting yourself or others with diseases.
Disclaimer
If you are in possession of a substance that does not appear on this page, this in no way means that it contains the expected ingredient or that it should be safe. The warnings we publish only refer to the substances listed in our Drug Checking offers, these substances pose a high risk of consumption and should not be consumed. A substance may have the same visual appearance (shape, size, colour, etc.) and yet have different ingredients or a different composition. There is no drug use without risk! Only a complete renunciation of drugs is risk-free! If you still decide to use drugs, you should at least follow the safer use rules.
