Methylphenidate

Generic Name

Methylphenidate

Brand Name

Ritalin, Concerta, Metadate, Daytrana

Class

Stimulant

Proposed Mechanism(s) of Action

Dopamine transport antagonist

Indication

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and narcolepsy

Off-Label Use

Treatment resistant depression

Side Effects

Headache, hypertension, nausea, nervousness, tachycardia, angina, cardiac arrhythmia, anxiety, anger, and agitation

Serious

Psychotic episodes (particularly with IV abuse), seizures, tachycardia, hypertension, rare neuroleptic malignant syndrome, activation of manic episodes, and sudden cardiac death with those with preexisting neurocardiogenic defects

Common

Insomnia, headache, nervousness, irritability, overstimulation, tremor, dizziness, anorexia, nausea, abdominal pain, weight loss, and blurred vision