Is Methylphenidate legal in Samoa?

Also known as: ritalin

Legal status

Methylphenidate is named as item 16 of the Second Schedule to the Narcotics Act 1967, 'METHYLPHENIDATE (α-phenyl-2-piperidineacetic acid methyl ester)', making it a Class B narcotic in the official version as at 31 December 2023.

Consequences if caught

As a Class B narcotic, dealing in, possessing, selling, supplying, or using methylphenidate without authorisation carries imprisonment of up to 14 years under section 18, and import or export carries the same 14 year maximum under section 17. Unlawful manufacture carries the same 14 year maximum under section 18A. Where the Judge finds the contravention was not wilful and merely a breach of a procedural provision, section 18's proviso instead applies a fine of up to 5 penalty units or imprisonment of up to 2 years, or both.

If prescribed or medical

Section 7(2)(c) exempts a person from the possession offence where methylphenidate was supplied for the person's use, or pursuant to the prescription of a licensee authorised to supply or prescribe narcotics for that purpose, consistent with its ordinary use as a prescribed stimulant for attention disorders. A licensee under section 11 may lawfully deal in methylphenidate in the course of employment or commercial activity.

Documentation

Importing or exporting methylphenidate requires a licence from the Chief Executive Officer under section 10(2), and dealing in it requires a licence under section 11. A traveller carrying a personal prescription supply should carry evidence of the prescribing licensee's authority and confirm current requirements with Samoa's Ministry of Health before travel, since the Act does not state a personal use import exemption.

Drug laws and enforcement change and vary within a country. This is not legal advice. Always confirm with Samoa’s embassy or official drug authority before traveling; penalties can be severe, including imprisonment.