Methylphenidate (HCl)
Methylphenidate (HCl) is a centrally acting sympathatomimetic agent.Methylphenidate (HCl) is a central nervous system stimulant. It increases mental alertness. Methylphenidate (HCl) is used in the treatment of narcolepsy. Methylphenidate (HCl) is used as an adjunct therapy to remedial measures (psychological, educational and social) in the managemnt of minimal brain dysfunction.
Primary Characteristics
It is of Synthetic origin and belongs to Phenylamide.
It belongs to Amine release pharmacological group on the basis of mechanism of action and also classified in Stimulant pharmacological group. It is also classified under Psychotherapeutic Drugs .
Molecular Weight: 269.3 · pKa: 8.5 · Solubility in Water: freely Soluble · Solubility in Alcohol: freely Soluble · Non-proprietary name: Methylphenidate (HCl) · pH: 4.3 · Isotonic value: 4.07.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Methylphenidate (HCl) has an oral bioavailability is 40% (±40%), pre-systemic (first-pass) metabolism accounts for 70% (±20%).
Distribution: Methylphenidate (HCl) has a volume of distribution is 13.1 l/kg. plasma protein binding is 10-33%.
Elimination: it is metabolised via Hepatic, plasma half-life is 2 hr, renal excretion is 95%(metabolite).
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Indications
Methylphenidate (HCl) is primarily indicated in conditions like Attention deficit disorders, Depression, Narcolepsy.
Methylphenidate (HCl) is also indicated for secondary conditions like Apathetic behaviour, Chronic fatigue, Drug-induced lethargy, Psychoneurosis, Stuttering.
Contraindications
Methylphenidate (HCl) is contraindicated in conditions like Agitation, Alcohol dependence, Anxiety, Cardiac arrhythmia, Epilepsy, Glucoma, Hypertension, Psychosis, Thyrotoxicosis, Gille de la tourette syndrome, Tension, Hypersensitivity.
Dosage
Methylphenidate (HCl)'s dosage details are as follows:
| Dose | Single Dose | Frequency | Route | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Dosage | ||||
| 12.5 mg | 12.5 mg | Every 8h | PO | |
| Paediatric Dosage (20kg) | ||||
| 0.2 mg/kg | 0.2 mg/kg | Every 12h | Oral | Dose for 5-12 Yrs of Children |
| Neonatal Dosage (3kg) | ||||
| No data. | ||||
Drug Interactions
Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.
Side Effects
Methylphenidate (HCl) in overdosage may give rise to further complications which include Depression , Agitation , Hyperactivity .
Methylphenidate (HCl) produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Convulsions , Cardiac arrhythmias. Careful monitoring is needed with proper medical management.
The signs and symptoms that are produced after acute overdosage of Methylphenidate (HCl) are Vomiting, Tachycardia , Cardiac arrhythmias, Convulsions , Confusion , Hallucinations , Sweating , Hyperventilation, Tremor, Mydriasis, Delusions , Sweating, Pallor, Elevation of BP , Hyperreflexia , Respiratory stimulation, Hyperflexia , Cardiac insufficiency, Loss of conciousness, hyperreflexia, Muscle twitching.
Methylphenidate (HCl) is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Abdominal pain, Anorexia , Dizziness, Headache, Insomnia, Nausea, Nervousness, Palpitation, Restlessness, Tachycardia, Weight loss.
Warnings / Precautions
Interference in Pathology
Methylphenidate (HCl) may interfere in the diagnosis of Test for the urinary measurement of alkaloids and amphetamine .
Available Brands
Storage Conditions
Drug Classification
- 1.24.5 — Psychostimulants, nootropics, and neurotonics