This is a central nervous system STIMULANT, structurally related and with similar effects to AMPHETAMINE. It is used by prescription as Ritalin. It was initially marketed as a mood enhancer in the mid-1950s and described as having less abuse potential than amphetamine; however, within a few years a number of dramatic reports of its abuse and toxicity were published. Methylphenidate is commercially available (by prescription) in pill form, reaching peak effect in one to two hours. Like the amphetamines and other stimulant drugs, methylphenidate is a controlled substance, placed in Schedule II of the CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES ACT to indicate that although it has medical utility it also has substantial ABUSE LIABILITY.

In most people, methylphenidate increases general activity, decreases food intake, produces positive subjective effects (an elevated mood), and can interfere with sleep. With continued use, tolerance can develop to these effects and users will often escalate...