When it comes to tolerance to any drug, there is no predetermined figure that says if you take this amount for a specific period, you’ll become tolerant. Some people can develop Ritalin tolerance after a few weeks, while others won’t develop it at all. Many who use Ritalin report never developing a tolerance. Little is known about this subject despite rigorous testing and studies. Ritalin tolerance isn’t the same across the board. There are three types of chemical tolerance to prescription stimulants. These include the following:
General tolerance: This occurs when you use a medication at the same dosage for a prolonged period.
Acute tolerance: This occurs when your body becomes tolerant to a drug rapidly, which occurs with cocaine.
Chronic tolerance: This is the direct result of using a drug or medication for more than a few weeks.
Any of these tolerance types will indicate you need a break from Ritalin. However, your treating physician could feel otherwise and increase your dose gradually until you find relief. If this does not work, they might consider a different medication.