Methylphenidate

Category: stimulant

Aliases: Ritalin, Concerta, Medikinet

Pharmacological Mechanism

Blocks DAT + NET — increases synaptic DA + NE without the TAAR1-mediated vesicular release of amphetamines. More selective for cortical than striatal DA transporters at therapeutic doses → lower peripheral effect than amphetamines. d-threo isomer (dexmethylphenidate) is the active stereoisomer.

Half-Life (t½)

PO: 3h

Dosing Guidelines

• PO: Typical 10mg (Range: 5 - 20 mg)

Target Organ Systems

• nervous