Concerta Street Price & Prescription Cost
Those seeking the stimulant drug Concerta on the street can expect to pay $2-$15 per pill. Those who are prescribed Concerta may pay a varied amount depending on health insurance.
Methylphenidate (brand name Concerta) is a stimulant prescription drug similar to Ritalin and Adderall which is used to help treat symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and the sleeping disorder narcolepsy.Â
Due to the euphoric sensations which can occur due to stimulation of the central nervous system (CNS), Concerta is a Schedule II controlled substance with potential for abuse. This leads some to turn to the black market to purchase Concerta, and drug prices may vary.
Concerta Street Price
The average street price of Concerta ranges from $2-$15 per pill. The street value of Concerta may fluctuate, depending on the availability of the drug.
Concerta is available in four strengths which are 18mg, 27mg, 36mg, and 54mg. Those seeking a stronger pill may pay a higher cost than those seeking a smaller strength.
Additionally, more rural areas of Ohio may see Concerta on the illicit drug market for higher prices than areas of Ohio which have heavy drug use. Concerta may cost less in areas of the state where Concerta is more easily available.
Risks Of Buying Concerta On The Street
Those who purchase any substance from the illicit drug market may find other substances in their pills due to the lack of quality control. For instance, a person buying Concerta on the black market may not realize the drugs are laced with small amounts of fentanyl or methamphetamine.
Even small traces of these substances may create conditions for a fatal drug overdose. Additionally, those selling Concerta who aren’t knowledgeable about the drug may unknowingly sell you a higher strength.
Street names associated with Concerta include skippy, pineapple, and poor man’s cocaine.
Cost Of Prescription Concerta
100 tablets of Concerta may cost almost $1,500 for those without insurance. Those with insurance will likely pay a flat premium per refill, depending on the strength prescribed by your doctor.
For instance, generic Concerta in the state of Ohio costs about $55 for thirty 36 mg tablets at the Giant Eagle pharmacy, while those who choose CVS may pay roughly $75. These prices do not consider other factors such as coupons and discount cards which can greatly lower the price.
If we were to use CVS prices for Concerta, you would find thirty tablets are $80 for 54 mg pills, $73 for 27 mg pills, and $72 for 18mg pills. These numbers will range in value due to various factors, including:
- the manufacturer of the pill
- the pharmacy used
- whether you’re prescribed the generic or name brand version
- if you have insurance coverage
- if any discount cards or coupons apply
Advantages Of Prescription Concerta
Those who take Concerta as a prescription medication from a pharmacist receive a pill that has undergone a quality-control check and is handled by professionals who supply the pills individually before providing them to you for your prescription.
A prescription makes certain you receive the exact strength of the medication without any contaminants from other drugs.
By having this peace of mind, you can take your medication as prescribed, with no worries of the lack of quality control or regarding any unwanted substances causing potential health risks.
Side Effects Of Concerta Abuse
According to the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), those who take Concerta may experience various side effects which can be enhanced in instances of substance abuse.
In fact, abusing Concerta can increase the risk of blood pressure fluctuations, withdrawal symptoms, and rapid heart rate.
Drug Interactions
Combining Concerta with other prescription drugs or illicit substances can result in life-threatening health concerns, including coma or overdose. In addition to alcohol and other stimulants, those taking Concerta should avoid benzodiazepines such as:
Benzodiazepines are CNS depressants, as are opioid painkillers which should also be avoided. Do not combine the following opioids with Concerta:
- Vicodin
- Percocet
- hydrocodone
- Demerol
- oxycodone (Oxycontin)
- methadone
Prescription Drug Abuse Treatment
If you or a loved one are struggling with drug abuse or mental health problems, contact Ohio Recovery Center. At our rehab facility, we provide a variety of treatment programs which may consist of medical detox, behavioral health, and inpatient care in a quiet rural setting.
To speak with one of our healthcare professionals who can help determine which treatment plan is right for you, please contact us today.
- Drug Enforcement Administration https://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/drug_chem_info/methylphenidate.pdf
- Food and Drug Administration https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2017/021121s038lbl.pdf
- National Institute on Drug Abuse https://nida.nih.gov/sites/default/files/drugfacts_stimulantadhd_1.pdf
- National Library of Medicine: MedlinePlus https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682188.html