I know people who've snorted the stuff. Ritalin is similar in its effects to amphetamines . It works by releasing stimulant neurotransmitters, in particular noradrenaline and dopamine.
Noradrenaline is important in maintaining wakefulness and attention.
Dopamine plays a role in movement and in feelings of pleasure. Changes in dopamine levels may underlie addiction to stimulants, including cocaine, amphetamines, and nicotine. When Ritalinwears off, you are left with a depletion of those neurotransmitters,which can make you feel tired and depressed. Ritalin is widely prescribed for the treatment of hyperactivity and attention deficit disorder in both children and adults. In those cases, it has a calming effect and works by stimulating the parts of the brain that regulate hyperactivity and wandering attention.