A neurochemical and neuropharmacological analysis of the mode of action of methylphenidate

The neuropharmacological and neurochemical effects of methylphenidate have been examined both in vivo and in vitro. A stimulation of histamine receptors by methylphenidate was demonstrated in a rat fundus preparation. Methylphenidate was also found to inhibit the enzymes monoamine oxidase and catechol-O-methyltransferase. By using receptor blockers and depleting agents, methylphenidate was found to produce both its hyperthermic and its improvement of conditioned avoidance responding by direct stimulation of the dopamine receptor. The stimulants d-amphetamine and cocaine were compared to methylphenidate in these studies, and, in contrast to methylphenidate, both were found to require the neurotransmitter dopamine to produce their hyperthermic and conditioned avoidance responding effects.Biology and Biochemistry, Department o