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Methylphenidate (MPD)
Methylphenidate blocks the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine in the central nervous system, increasing their availability in the brain.
Methylphenidate blocks the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine in the central nervous system, increasing their availability in the brain. Used for Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Narcolepsy.
At a glance
| Generic name | Methylphenidate (MPD) |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Ritalin |
| Sponsor | University of Cincinnati |
| Drug class | Sympathomimetic amine; CNS stimulant |
| Target | Dopamine transporter (DAT); Norepinephrine transporter (NET) |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Neurology; Psychiatry |
| Phase | FDA-approved |
Mechanism of action
Methylphenidate is a sympathomimetic amine that inhibits the reuptake transporters (DAT and NET) for dopamine and norepinephrine, leading to increased concentrations of these neurotransmitters in the synaptic cleft. This enhanced dopaminergic and noradrenergic signaling improves attention, focus, and impulse control in patients with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and narcolepsy.
Approved indications
- Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
- Narcolepsy
Common side effects
- Insomnia
- Decreased appetite
- Headache
- Nervousness or anxiety
- Tachycardia
- Abdominal pain
Key clinical trials
- Methylphenidate and Parkinson's Disease (PHASE2)
- Methylphenidate for the Treatment of Gait Impairment in Parkinson's Disease (PHASE4)
Primary sources
Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.
| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |
Competitive intelligence
For the full competitive landscape — auto-detected comparators, recent regulatory actions across the set, upcoming PDUFA, patent timeline, sponsor landscape:
- Methylphenidate (MPD) CI brief — competitive landscape report
- Methylphenidate (MPD) updates RSS · CI watch RSS
- University of Cincinnati portfolio CI