Generic Name:
methylphenidate hydrochloride

Trade Name:
Ritalin ® [Novartis];
Concerta ® [Alza]

IUPAC Name:
methyl 2-phenyl-2-(2-
piperidyl)acetate hydrochloride

Dosage Forms/Routes:
Tablet/oral;
Chewable tablet/oral;
Extended release tablet/oral;
Extended release capsule/oral;
Solution/oral

Major Metabolite:
dl-ritalinic acid

Database Search Links:
[PubMed]
[Search PubMed for
Randomized Controlled Trials]
[PubChem]
[PDSP Ki database]

Initial Approval:
12/05/1955

Manufacturers:
[FDA Search]

Product Insert:
[Tablet - Ritalin]
[Extended Release Capsule - Ritalin LA]
[Extended Release Tablet - Concerta]

RxList:
[Link]

Epocrates:
[Link]
[Link 2] (Concerta)

Empirical Formula:
C14H20ClNO2

Molecular Mass:
269.767 g/mol

Indications:
ADHD, narcolepsy 		Possible Mechanisms of Action:
Methylphenidate inhibits the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine (1). The drug has a higher affinity (~ 10-fold) for dopamine transporters than norepinephrine transporters (1). 		Chemical Class:
piperidine derivative (a 50:50 mixture of racemic threo-methylphenidate hydrochloride)

PubChem 2D Structure:

"3D" Structure (Requires Chime):
[Link] 

1. Bymaster FP, Katner JS, Nelson DL, Hemrick-Luecke SK, Threlkeld PG, Heiligenstein JH, Morin SM, Gehlert DR, Perry KW.
Atomoxetine increases extracellular levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in prefrontal cortex of rat: a potential mechanism for efficacy in attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder.
Neuropsychopharmacology 2002 Nov;27(5):699-711 [Abstract]