Methylphenidate

Generic name: methylphenidate (oral) [ METH-il-FEN-i-date ]
Brand names: Adhansia XR, Aptensio XR, Concerta, Cotempla XR-ODT, Jornay PM, Metadate ER, Methylin, QuilliChew ER, Quillivant XR, Relexxii, Ritalin, Ritalin LA

Drug class: CNS stimulants

Dosage form: Tablet, Extended-release tablet, Capsule, Oral solution

Route of administration: Oral

Dose: Tablet: 5 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg; Extended-release tablet: 10 mg, 18 mg, 20 mg, 27 mg, 36 mg, 54 mg; Capsule: 10 mg, 20 mg, 30 mg, 40 mg; Oral solution: 5 mg/5 mL, 10 mg/5 mL

Mechanism of action: Methylphenidate blocks the reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine into presynaptic neurons, increasing their concentration in the synaptic cleft and enhancing neurotransmission.

Drug usage cases: Methylphenidate is used to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy.

Drug contra indications: Methylphenidate should not be used in patients with known hypersensitivity to the drug, marked anxiety, tension, agitation, glaucoma, tics, or a family history of Tourette syndrome.

Side effects: Common side effects include insomnia, decreased appetite, abdominal pain, and headache. Serious side effects may include:

• Cardiovascular events: Risk of sudden death, stroke, and myocardial infarction.
• Psychiatric effects: Potential for new or worsening psychiatric symptoms, such as psychosis or mania.
• Growth suppression: Risk of growth inhibition in children.
• Severe hypertension: Potential for significant increases in blood pressure.

Warnings: Methylphenidate can cause serious cardiovascular and psychiatric events. Patients should be monitored for changes in heart rate, blood pressure, and behavior. Growth should be monitored in children. It has a potential for abuse and dependence, requiring careful assessment of the risk before prescribing.

Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding: The safety of methylphenidate during pregnancy is not well established, and it should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Methylphenidate is excreted in human milk, so caution should be exercised when administered to breastfeeding mothers.