methylphenidate

noun

meth·​yl·​phe·​ni·​date ˌme-thəl-ˈfe-nə-ˌdāt 

-ˈfē-

: a mild stimulant C₁₄H₁₉NO₂ of the central nervous system used in the form of its hydrochloride to treat narcolepsy and hyperactivity disorders (such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) in children

Examples of methylphenidate in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Richmond resident Carson McNamara takes methylphenidate, another ADHD medication, and now drives 20 minutes away to a local pharmacy to find it. —Sabrina Moreno, Axios, 30 Oct. 2024

Researchers also examined the records of patients who took the ADHD medication methylphenidate and found no increased odds of psychosis or mania. —Ken Alltucker, USA TODAY, 12 Sep. 2024

This may be because methylphenidate doses were lower than amphetamine doses, according to the analysis. —Don Rauf, EverydayHealth.com, 18 Sep. 2024

One study in children with ADHD also taking methylphenidate found that melatonin improved sleep in over 60% of participants. —Kirstyn Hill, Pharmd, Mph, Health, 11 Sep. 2024

Word History

Etymology

methyl + phenyl + piperidine + acetate

First Known Use

1956, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

methylphenidate

noun

meth·​yl·​phe·​ni·​date ˌmeth-əl-ˈfen-ə-ˌdāt  -ˈfē-nə- 

: a mild stimulant of the central nervous system that is administered orally in the form of its hydrochloride C₁₄H₁₉NO₂·HCl to treat narcolepsy and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

Note: Trademarks for methylphenidate include Concerta, Quillivant, and Ritalin.