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Methylphenidate Hydrochloride
Overview
Active ingredients
Source: NDC DirectoryForms, strengths and routes
Source: NDC DirectoryPharmacologic classes are listed in the class section below.
Pharmacologic class
Source: NDC Directory| Class | Type | Browse |
|---|---|---|
| Central Nervous System Stimulant [EPC] | EPC | All 93 members |
| Central Nervous System Stimulation [PE] | PE | All 95 members |
Regulatory status
Source: Drugs@FDANDC Directory| Product | Trade name | Form | Strength | Ingredient | Status | TE | Flags |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 210139-001 | METHYLPHENIDATE HYDROCHLORIDE | SOLUTION | METHYLPHENIDATE HYDROCHLORIDE | Prescription | AA | ||
| 210139-002 | METHYLPHENIDATE HYDROCHLORIDE | SOLUTION | METHYLPHENIDATE HYDROCHLORIDE | Prescription | AA |
Therapeutic equivalence
Source: Orange BookWhat this rating means: Therapeutically equivalent — no known or suspected bioequivalence problems (conventional dosage forms)
Codes beginning with “A” indicate products the FDA considers therapeutically equivalent. Codes beginning with “B” indicate bioequivalence has not been established. See methodology.
Approval history
Source: Drugs@FDA| Type | No. | Action | Status | Date | Review |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Supplement | 3 | Labeling | Approved | February 27, 2024 | Standard |
| Supplement | 1 | Labeling | Approved | September 12, 2023 | Standard |
| Original application | 1 | Approved | October 3, 2018 | Standard |
Prescribing information
Source: openFDA Drug LabelingReproduced verbatim from the Structured Product Labeling submitted to the FDA (effective 20250130). This is the manufacturer's labelling text, not a summary and not advice.
Boxed Warning
openFDA Drug LabelingWARNING: ABUSE, MISUSE AND ADDICTION Methylphenidate hydrochloride oral solution has a high potential for abuse and misuse, which can lead to the development of a substance use disorder, including addiction. Misuse and abuse of CNS stimulants, including methylphenidate hydrochloride oral solution, can result in overdose and death [see Overdosage (10)], and this risk is increased with higher doses or unapproved methods of administration, such as snorting or injection. Before prescribing methylphenidate hydrochloride oral solution, assess each patient’s risk for abuse, misuse, and addiction. Educate patients and their families about these risks, proper storage of the drug, and proper disposal of any unused drug. Throughout methylphenidate hydrochloride oral solution treatment, reassess each patient’s risk of abuse, misuse, and addiction and frequently monitor for signs and symptoms of abuse, misuse, and addiction [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) and Drug Abuse and Dependence (9.2)]. WARNING: ABUSE, MISUSE, AND ADDICTION See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning. Methylphenidate hydrochloride oral solution has a high potential for abuse and misuse, which can lead to the development of a substance use disorder, including addiction. Misuse and abuse of CNS stimulants, including Methylphenidate hydrochloride oral solution, can result in overdose and death (5.1, 9.2, 10): • Before prescribing Methylphenidate hydrochloride oral solution, assess each patient’s risk for abuse, misuse, and addiction. • Educate patients and their families about these risks, proper storage of the drug, and proper disposal of any unused drug. • Throughout treatment, reassess each patient’s risk and frequently monitor for signs and symptoms of abuse, misuse, and addiction.
Recent Major Changes
openFDA Drug LabelingRECENT MAJOR CHANGES Boxed Warning 10/2023 Dosage and Administration ( 2.1 , 2.2 , 2.3 ) 10/2023 Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 , 5.2 , 5.8 , 5.9, 5.10) 10/2023
Indications and Usage
openFDA Drug LabelingINDICATIONS AND USAGE Attention Deficit Disorders, Narcolepsy Attention Deficit Disorders (previously known as Minimal Brain Dysfunction in Children). Other terms being used to describe the behavioral syndrome below include: Hyperkinetic Child Syndrome, Minimal Brain Damage, Minimal Cerebral Dysfunction, Minor Cerebral Dysfunction. Methylphenidate HCl Oral Solution is indicated as an integral part of a total treatment program which typically includes other remedial measures (psychological, educational, social) for a stabilizing effect in children with a behavioral syndrome characterized by the following group of developmentally inappropriate symptoms: moderate-to-severe distractibility, short attention span, hyperactivity, emotional lability, and impulsivity. The diagnosis of this syndrome should not be made with finality when these symptoms are only of comparatively recent origin. Nonlocalizing (soft) neurological signs, learning disability, and abnormal EEG may or may not be present, and a diagnosis of central nervous system dysfunction may or may not be warranted. Special Diagnostic Considerations Specific etiology of this syndrome is unknown, and there is no single diagnostic test. Adequate diagnosis requires the use not only of medical but of special psychological, educational, and social resources. Characteristics commonly reported include: chronic history of short attention span, distractibility, emotional lability, impulsivity, and moderate-to-severe hyperactivity; minor neurological signs and abnormal EEG. Learning may or may not be impaired. The diagnosis must be based upon a complete history and evaluation of the child and not solely on the presence of one or more of these characteristics. Drug treatment is not indicated for all children with this syndrome. Stimulants are not intended for use in the child who exhibits symptoms secondary to environmental factors and/or primary psychiatric disorders, including psychosis. Appropriate educational placement is essential and psychosocial intervention is generally necessary. When remedial measures alone are insufficient, the decision to prescribe stimulant medication will depend upon the physician's assessment of the chronicity and severity of the child's symptoms.
Attention Deficit Disorders, Narcolepsy Attention Deficit Disorders (previously known as Minimal Brain Dysfunction in Children). Other terms being used to describe the behavioral syndrome below include: Hyperkinetic Child Syndrome, Minimal Brain Damage, Minimal Cerebral Dysfunction, Minor Cerebral Dysfunction. Methylphenidate HCl Oral Solution is indicated as an integral part of a total treatment program which typically includes other remedial measures (psychological, educational, social) for a stabilizing effect in children with a behavioral syndrome characterized by the following group of developmentally inappropriate symptoms: moderate-to-severe distractibility, short attention span, hyperactivity, emotional lability, and impulsivity. The diagnosis of this syndrome should not be made with finality when these symptoms are only of comparatively recent origin. Nonlocalizing (soft) neurological signs, learning disability, and abnormal EEG may or may not be present, and a diagnosis of central nervous system dysfunction may or may not be warranted.
Special Diagnostic Considerations Specific etiology of this syndrome is unknown, and there is no single diagnostic test. Adequate diagnosis requires the use not only of medical but of special psychological, educational, and social resources. Characteristics commonly reported include: chronic history of short attention span, distractibility, emotional lability, impulsivity, and moderate-to-severe hyperactivity; minor neurological signs and abnormal EEG. Learning may or may not be impaired. The diagnosis must be based upon a complete history and evaluation of the child and not solely on the presence of one or more of these characteristics. Drug treatment is not indicated …
Dosage and Administration
openFDA Drug Labeling2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Pediatric patients 6 years and older: Starting dose is 5 mg twice daily (before breakfast and lunch); increase the dose 5 mg to 10 mg weekly; daily dosage above 60 mg is not recommended. (2.2) Adults: Administer in divided doses 2 or 3 times daily, preferably 30 to 45 minutes before meals. Average dosage is 20 to 30 mg daily. Maximum recommended daily dosage is 60 mg. (2) 2.1 Pretreatment Screening Prior to initiating treatment with methylphenidate hydrochloride oral solution, assess for the presence of cardiac disease (i.e., perform a careful history including family history of sudden death or ventricular arrhythmia, and physical examination) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)] . Assess the risk of abuse prior to prescribing, and monitor for signs of abuse and dependence while on therapy. Maintain careful prescription records, educate patients about abuse, monitor for signs of abuse and overdose, and periodically re-evaluate the need for methylphenidate hydrochloride oral solution use [see Boxed Warning, Warnings and Precautions (5.1), Drug Abuse and Dependence (9)] . 2.2 General Dosing Information Pediatric Patients 6 years of Age and Older The recommended starting dosage is 5 mg orally twice daily before breakfast and lunch (preferably 30 to 45 minutes before meals). Increase the dosage gradually, in increments of 5 mg to 10 mg weekly. Daily dosage above 60 mg is not recommended. Adults Administer orally in divided doses 2 or 3 times daily, preferably 30 to 45 minutes before meals. The maximum recommended daily dose is 60 mg. The average dosage is 20 to 30 mg daily. For adult patients who are unable to sleep if medication is taken late in the day, administer the last dose before 6 p.m. Pharmacological treatment of ADHD may be needed for extended periods. Periodically re-evaluate the long-term use of methylphenidate hydrochloride oral solution, and adjust the dosage as needed. 2.3 Dosage Reduction and Discontinuation If paradoxical aggravation of symptoms or other adverse reactions occur, reduce dosage, or, if necessary, discontinue methylphenidate hydrochloride oral solution. Methylphenidate hydrochloride oral solution should be periodically discontinued to assess the pediatric patient’s condition. If improvement is not observed after appropriate dosage adjustment over a one- month period, discontinue methylphenidate hydrochloride oral solution.
Dosage Forms and Strengths
openFDA Drug Labeling3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS Methylphenidate hydrochloride Oral Solution, USP is a clear, colorless to pale yellow, grape flavored solution available in a 500 mL bottle in the following strengths: • 5 mg per 5 mL • 10 mg per 5 mL Oral solution: 5 mg per 5 mL and 10 mg per 5 mL.
Contraindications
openFDA Drug Labeling4 CONTRAINDICATIONS Methylphenidate hydrochloride oral solution is contraindicated in patients: with known hypersensitivity to methylphenidate or other components of methylphenidate hydrochloride oral solution. Hypersensitivity reactions such as angioedema and anaphylactic reactions have been reported in patients treated with methylphenidate [see Adverse Reactions ( 6 )] . receiving concomitant treatment with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), or within 14 days following discontinuation of treatment with an MAOI, because of the risk of hypertensive crises [see Drug Interactions ( 7 )] . Known hypersensitivity to methylphenidate or other components of methylphenidate hydrochloride oral solution ( 4 ) Concurrent treatment with a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), or use of an MAOI within the preceding 14 days ( 4 )
Warnings and Cautions
openFDA Drug Labeling5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Risks to Patients with Serious Cardiac Disease: Avoid use in patients with known structural cardiac abnormalities, cardiomyopathy, serious cardiac arrhythmias, coronary artery disease, or other serious cardiac disease. ( 5.2 ) Increased Blood Pressure and Heart Rate: Monitor blood pressure and pulse. ( 5.3 ) Psychiatric Adverse Reactions: Prior to initiating methylphenidate hydrochloride oral solution, screen patients for risk factors for developing a manic episode. If new psychotic or manic symptoms occur, consider discontinuing methylphenidate hydrochloride oral solution. ( 5.4 ) Priapism: If abnormally sustained or frequent and painful erections occur, patients should seek immediate medical attention. ( 5.5 ) Peripheral Vasculopathy, Including Raynaud’s Phenomenon: Careful observation for digital changes is necessary during methylphenidate hydrochloride treatment. Further clinical evaluation (e.g., rheumatology referral) may be appropriate for patients who develop signs or symptoms of peripheral vasculopathy. ( 5.6 ) Long-Term Suppression of Growth in Pediatric Patients: Closely monitor (height and weight) in pediatric patients. Pediatric patients not growing or gaining height or weight as expected may need to have their treatment interrupted. ( 5.7 ) Acute Angle Closure Glaucoma: Methylphenidate hydrochloride-treated patients considered at risk for acute angle closure glaucoma (e.g., patients with significant hyperopia) should be evaluated by an ophthalmologist. ( 5.8 ) Increased Intraocular Pressure (IOP) and Glaucoma: Prescribe methylphenidate hydrochloride oral solution to patients with open-angle glaucoma or abnormally increased IOP only if the benefit of treatment is considered to outweigh the risk. Closely monitor patients with a history of increased IOP or open-angle glaucoma. ( 5.9 ) Motor and Verbal Tics, and Worsening of Tourette’s Syndrome: Before initiating methylphenidate hydrochloride oral solution, assess the family history and clinically evaluate patients for tics or Tourette’s syndrome. Regularly monitor patients for the emergence or worsening of tics or Tourette’s syndrome. Discontinue treatment if clinically appropriate. ( 5.10 ) 5.1 Abuse, Misuse, and Addiction Methylphenidate hydrochloride oral solution has a high potential for abuse and misuse. The use of methylphenidate hydrochloride exposes individuals to the risks of abuse and misuse, which can lead to the development of a substance use disorder, including addiction. Methylphenidate hydrochloride oral solution can be diverted for non-medical use into illicit channels or distribution [see Drug Abuse and Dependence ( 9.2 )] . Misuse and abuse of CNS stimulants, including methylphenidate hydrochloride, can result in overdose and death [see Overdosage ( 10 )] , and this risk is increased with higher doses or unapproved methods of administration, such as snorting or injection. Before prescribing methylphenidate hydrochloride oral solution, assess each patient’s risk for abuse, misuse, and addiction. Educate patients and their families about these risks and proper disposal of any unused drug. Advise patients to store methylphenidate hydrochloride oral solution in a safe place, preferably locked, and instruct patients to not give methylphenidate hydrochloride oral solution to anyone else. Throughout methylphenidate hydrochloride treatment, reassess each patient’s risk of abuse, misuse, and addiction and frequently monitor for signs and symptoms of abuse, misuse, and addiction. 5.2 Risks to Patients with Serious Cardiac Disease Sudden death has been reported in patients with structural cardiac abnormalities or other serious cardiac disease who were treated with CNS stimulants at the recommended ADHD dosage. Avoid methylphenidate hydrochloride use in patients with known structural cardiac abnormalities, cardiomyopathy, serious cardiac arrythmia, coronary artery disease, or other serious cardiac disease. 5.3 Increased Blood Pressur …
Warnings
openFDA Drug LabelingWARNINGS Serious Cardiovascular Events Sudden Death and Pre-Existing Structural Cardiac Abnormalities or Other Serious Heart Problems Children and Adolescents – Sudden death has been reported in association with CNS stimulant treatment at usual doses in children and adolescents with structural cardiac abnormalities or other serious heart problems. Although some serious heart problems alone carry an increased risk of sudden death, stimulant products generally should not be used in children or adolescents with known serious structural cardiac abnormalities, cardiomyopathy, serious heart rhythm abnormalities, or other serious cardiac problems that may place them at increased vulnerability to the sympathomimetic effects of a stimulant drug. Adults – Sudden deaths, stroke, and myocardial infarction have been reported in adults taking stimulant drugs at usual doses for ADHD. Although the role of stimulants in these adult cases is also unknown, adults have a greater likelihood than children of having serious structural cardiac abnormalities, cardiomyopathy, serious heart rhythm abnormalities, coronary artery disease, or other serious cardiac problems. Adults with such abnormalities should also generally not be treated with stimulant drugs. Hypertension and Other Cardiovascular Conditions Stimulant medications cause a modest increase in average blood pressure (about 2 to 4 mmHg) and average heart rate (about 3 to 6 bpm), and individuals may have larger increases. While the mean changes alone would not be expected to have short-term consequences, all patients should be monitored for larger changes in heart rate and blood pressure. Caution is indicated in treating patients whose underlying medical conditions might be compromised by increases in blood pressure or heart rate, e.g., those with pre-existing hypertension, heart failure, recent myocardial infarction, or ventricular arrhythmia. Assessing Cardiovascular Status in Patients being Treated with Stimulant Medications Children, adolescents, or adults who are being considered for treatment with stimulant medications should have a careful history (including assessment for a family history of sudden death or ventricular arrhythmia) and physical exam to assess for the presence of cardiac disease, and should receive further cardiac evaluation if findings suggest such disease (e.g., electrocardiogram and echocardiogram). Patients who develop symptoms such as exertional chest pain, unexplained syncope, or other symptoms suggestive of cardiac disease during stimulant treatment should undergo a prompt cardiac evaluation. Psychiatric Adverse Events Pre-Existing Psychosis – Administration of stimulants may exacerbate symptoms of behavior disturbance and thought disorder in patients with a pre-existing psychotic disorder. Bipolar Illness – Particular care should be taken in using stimulants to treat ADHD in patients with comorbid bipolar disorder because of concern for possible induction of a mixed/manic episode in such patients. Prior to initiating treatment with a stimulant, patients with comorbid depressive symptoms should be adequately screened to determine if they are at risk for bipolar disorder; such screening should include a detailed psychiatric history, including a family history of suicide, bipolar disorder, and depression. Emergence of New Psychotic or Manic Symptoms – Treatment emergent psychotic or manic symptoms, e.g., hallucinations, delusional thinking, or mania in children and adolescents without a prior history of psychotic illness or mania can be caused by stimulants at usual doses. If such symptoms occur, consideration should be given to a possible causal role of the stimulant, and discontinuation of treatment may be appropriate. In a pooled analysis of multiple short-term, placebo-controlled studies, such symptoms occurred in about 0.1% (4 patients with events out of 3482 exposed to methylphenidate or amphetamine for several weeks at usual doses) of stimulant-treated patien …
Adverse Reactions
openFDA Drug Labeling6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following adverse reactions are discussed in more detail in other sections of the labeling: Abuse, misuse, and addiction [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 ), Drug Abuse and Dependence ( 9.2 , 9.3 )] Known hypersensitivity to methylphenidate or other components of methylphenidate hydrochloride oral solution [see Contraindications ( 4 )] Hypertensive crisis when used concomitantly with monoamine oxidase inhibitors [see Contraindications ( 4 ), Drug Interactions ( 7 )] Risks to patients with serious cardiac disease [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )] Increased blood pressure and heart rate [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 )] Psychiatric adverse reactions [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )] Priapism [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.5 )] Peripheral vasculopathy, including Raynaud’s phenomenon [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.6 )] Long-term suppression of growth in pediatric patients [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.7 )] Acute angle closure glaucoma [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.8 )] Increased intraocular pressure and glaucoma [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.9 )] Motor and verbal tics, and worsening of Tourette’s syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.10 )] The following adverse reactions associated with the use of methylphenidate containing products were identified in clinical studies, postmarketing reports, or literature. Because some of these reactions were reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure. Infections and infestations: nasopharyngitis Blood and the lymphatic system disorders: leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, anemia, pancytopenia Immune system disorders: hypersensitivity reactions, including angioedema and anaphylaxis, auricular swelling, bullous conditions, eruptions, exanthemas Metabolism and nutrition disorders: decreased appetite, reduced weight gain and suppression of growth during prolonged use in pediatric patients Psychiatric disorders: insomnia, anxiety, restlessness, agitation, psychosis (sometimes with visual and tactile hallucinations), depressed mood, affect lability, mania, disorientation, libido changes Nervous system disorders: headache, dizziness, tremor, dyskinesia including choreoatheetoid movements, drowsiness, convulsions, cerebral arteritis and/or occlusion, serotonin syndrome in combination with serotonergic drugs, migraine, motor and verbal tics Eye disorders: blurred vision, difficulties in visual accommodation, diplopia, mydriasis, increased intraocular pressure Cardiac disorders: tachycardia, palpitations, increased blood pressure, arrhythmias, angina pectoris, sudden cardiac death, myocardial infarction, bradycardia, extrasystole Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders: cough, pharyngolaryngeal pain, dyspnea Gastrointestinal disorders: dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dyspepsia, diarrhea General disorders: fatigue, hyperpyrexia Hepatobiliary disorders: abnormal liver function, ranging from transaminase elevation to severe hepatic injury Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: hyperhidrosis, pruritus, urticaria, exfoliative dermatitis, scalp hair loss, erythema multiforme rash, thrombocytopenic purpura angioneurotic edema, erythema, fixed drug eruption Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders: arthralgia, muscle cramps, rhabdomyolysis, myalgia, muscle twitching Renal and urinary disorders: hematuria Reproductive system and breast disorders: gynecomastia Urogenital disorders: priapism Vascular disorders: peripheral coldness, Raynaud’s phenomenon Investigations: weight loss Common adverse reactions: tachycardia, palpitations, headache, insomnia, anxiety, hyperhidrosis, weight loss, decreased appetite, dry mouth, nausea, and abdominal pain. ( 6 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS contact Cranbury Pharmaceuticals, LLC at (732) 940 0358 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch .
Drug Interactions
openFDA Drug Labeling7 DRUG INTERACTIONS Antihypertensive Drugs : Monitor blood pressure. Adjust dosage of antihypertensive drug as needed. ( 7.1 ) See 17 for PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION and Medication Guide . 7.1 Clinically Important Drug Interactions with Methylphenidate Hydrochloride Oral Solution Table 1 presents clinically important drug interactions with methylphenidate hydrochloride oral solution. Table 1: Clinically Important Drug Interactions with Methylphenidate Hydrochloride Oral Solution Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOI) Clinical Impact: Concomitant use of MAOIs and CNS stimulants, including methylphenidate hydrochloride oral solution, can cause hypertensive crisis. Potential outcomes include death, stroke, myocardial infarction, aortic dissection, ophthalmological complications, eclampsia, pulmonary edema, and renal failure [see Contraindications (4) ]. Intervention: Concomitant use of methylphenidate hydrochloride oral solution with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or within 14 days after discontinuing MAOI treatment is contraindicated. Antihypertensive Drugs Clinical Impact: Methylphenidate hydrochloride oral solution may decrease the effectiveness of drugs used to treat hypertension [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 )]. Intervention: Monitor blood pressure and adjust the dosage of the antihypertensive drug as needed. Halogenated Anesthetics Clinical Impact: Concomitant use of halogenated anesthetics and methylphenidate hydrochloride oral solution may increase the risk of sudden blood pressure and heart rate increase during surgery. Intervention: Avoid use of methylphenidate hydrochloride oral solution in patients being treated with anesthetics on the day of surgery. Risperidone Clinical Impact: Combined use of methylphenidate with risperidone when there is a change, whether an increase or decrease, in dosage of either or both medications, may increase the risk of extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS). Intervention: Monitor for signs of EPS.
Use in Specific Populations
openFDA Drug Labeling8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS 8.1 Pregnancy Pregnancy Exposure Registry There is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to ADHD medications, including methylphenidate hydrochloride oral solution, during pregnancy. Healthcare providers are encouraged to register patients by calling the National Pregnancy Registry for Psychostimulants at 1-866-961-2388. Risk Summary Published studies and postmarketing reports on methylphenidate use during pregnancy have not identified a drug-associated risk of major birth defects, miscarriage or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes. There may be risks to the fetus associated with the use of CNS stimulants use during pregnancy ( see Clinical Considerations ). No effects on morphological development were observed in embryo-fetal development studies with oral administration of methylphenidate to pregnant rats and rabbits during organogenesis at doses up to 12 and 19 times, respectively, the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) of 60 mg/day given to adults on a mg/m 2 basis. However, spina bifida was observed in rabbits at a dose 65 times the MRHD given to adults. A decrease in pup body weight was observed in a pre- and post-natal development study with oral administration of methylphenidate to rats throughout pregnancy and lactation at doses 7 times the MRHD given to adults ( see Data ). The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively. Clinical Considerations Fetal/Neonatal Adverse Reactions CNS stimulants, such as methylphenidate hydrochloride oral solution, can cause vasoconstriction and thereby decrease placental perfusion. No fetal and/or neonatal adverse reactions have been reported with the use of therapeutic doses of methylphenidate during pregnancy; however, premature delivery and low birth weight infants have been reported in amphetamine-dependent mothers. Data Animal Data In embryo-fetal development studies conducted in rats and rabbits, methylphenidate was administered orally at doses of up to 75 and 200 mg/kg/day, respectively, during the period of organogenesis. Malformations (increased incidence of fetal spina bifida) were observed in rabbits at the highest dose, which is approximately 65 times the MRHD of 60 mg/day given to adults on a mg/m 2 basis. The no effect level for embryo-fetal development in rabbits was 60 mg/kg/day (19 times the MRHD given to adults on a mg/m 2 basis). There was no evidence of morphological development effects in rats, although increased incidences of fetal skeletal variations were seen at the highest dose level (12 times the MRHD of 60 mg/day given to adults on a mg/m 2 basis), which was also maternally toxic. The no effect level for embryo-fetal development in rats was 25 mg/kg/day (4 times the MRHD on a mg/m 2 basis). When methylphenidate was administered to rats throughout pregnancy and lactation at doses of up to 45 mg/kg/day, offspring body weight gain was decreased at the highest dose (7 times the MRHD of 60 mg/day given to adults on a mg/m 2 basis), but no other effects on postnatal development were observed. The no effect level for pre- and postnatal development in rats was 15 mg/kg/day (~2 times the MRHD given to adults on a mg/m 2 basis). 8.2 Lactation Risk Summary Limited published literature, based on milk sampling from seven mothers reports that methylphenidate is present in human milk, which resulted in infant doses of 0.16% to 0.7% of the maternal weight- adjusted dosage and a milk/plasma ratio ranging between 1.1 and 2.7. There are no reports of adverse effects on the breastfed infant and no effects on milk production. Long-term neurodevelopmental effects on infants from stimul …
Mechanism of Action
openFDA Drug Labeling12.1 Mechanism of Action Methylphenidate hydrochloride is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant. The mode of therapeutic action in ADHD is not known.
Description
openFDA Drug Labeling11 DESCRIPTION Methylphenidate hydrochloride oral solution contains methylphenidate hydrochloride a CNS stimulant. It is available as an oral solution in 5 mg/5 mL and 10 mg/5 mL strengths for oral administration. Chemically, methylphenidate hydrochloride is ( d, l (racemic) methyl α-phenyl-2-piperidineacetate hydrochloride and its structural formula is: Methylphenidate Hydrochloride C 14 H 19 NO 2 • HCl MW = 269.77 Methylphenidate hydrochloride USP is a white, odorless, fine crystalline powder. Its solutions are acid to litmus. It is freely soluble in water and in methanol, soluble in alcohol, and slightly soluble in chloroform and in acetone. Each mL of methylphenidate hydrochloride oral solution 5 mg/5 mL contains 1 mg of methylphenidate hydrochloride USP. Each mL of methylphenidate hydrochloride oral solution 10 mg/5 mL contains 2 mg of methylphenidate hydrochloride USP. Methylphenidate hydrochloride oral solution also contains the following inactive ingredients: glycerin, polyethylene glycol 1450, hydrochloric acid, grape 501417C and purified water. methylphenidate-st
Overdosage
openFDA Drug LabelingOVERDOSAGE Signs and symptoms of acute overdosage, resulting principally from overstimulation of the central nervous system and from excessive sympathomimetic effects, may include the following: vomiting, agitation, tremors, hyperreflexia, muscle twitching, convulsions (may be followed by coma), euphoria, confusion, hallucinations, delirium, sweating, flushing, headache, hyperpyrexia, tachycardia, palpitations, cardiac arrhythmias, hypertension, mydriasis, dryness of mucous membranes, and rhabdomyolysis. Consult with a Certified Poison Control Center regarding treatment for up-to-date guidance and advice. Treatment consists of appropriate supportive measures. The patient must be protected against self-injury and against external stimuli that would aggravate overstimulation already present. Gastric contents may be evacuated by gastric lavage. In the presence of severe intoxication, use a carefully titrated dosage of a short-acting barbiturate before performing gastric lavage. Other measures to detoxify the gut include administration of activated charcoal and a cathartic. Intensive care must be provided to maintain adequate circulation and respiratory exchange; external cooling procedures may be required for hyperpyrexia. Efficacy of peritoneal dialysis or extracorporeal hemodialysis for methylphenidate overdosage has not been established.
How Supplied / Storage and Handling
openFDA Drug Labeling16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING Methylphenidate Hydrochloride Oral Solution is a clear, colorless to pale yellow, grape flavored solution with no visible particulates available in the following strengths • 5 mg per 5 mL Bottles of 500 mL...........NDC 63629-1175-1 Storage and Handling Store at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Dispense in tight container with child-resistant closure. Disposal Comply with local laws and regulations on drug disposal of CNS stimulants. Dispose of remaining, unused, or expired methylphenidate hydrochloride oral solution by a medicine take-back program or by an authorized collector registered with the Drug Enforcement Administration. If no take-back program or authorized collector is available, mix methylphenidate hydrochloride oral solution with an undesirable, nontoxic substance to make it less appealing to children and pets. Place the mixture in a container such as a sealed plastic bag and discard methylphenidate hydrochloride oral solution in the household trash. Repackaged/Relabeled by: Bryant Ranch Prepack, Inc. Burbank, CA 91504
Adverse event reports
Source: openFDA FAERSAttributed to this product's most-reported active ingredient: METHYLPHENIDATE. Combination products with more than six active ingredients are not attributed, because a report count summed across a long ingredient list measures the list, not the medicine.
Shortages
Source: FDA Drug Shortages| Status | Availability | Company | Presentation | Updated |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Current | Limited Availability | Trigen Laboratories, LLC | Methylphenidate Hydrochloride, Tablet, Extended Release, 63 mg (NDC 13811-700-30) | September 16, 2026 |
| Current | Limited Availability | Trigen Laboratories, LLC | Methylphenidate Hydrochloride, Tablet, Extended Release, 45 mg (NDC 13811-711-30) | September 16, 2026 |
| Current | Limited Availability | Trigen Laboratories, LLC | Methylphenidate Hydrochloride, Tablet, Extended Release, 18 mg (NDC 13811-706-10) | September 16, 2026 |
| Current | Limited Availability | Trigen Laboratories, LLC | Methylphenidate Hydrochloride, Tablet, Extended Release, 54 mg (NDC 13811-709-10) | September 16, 2026 |
| Current | Limited Availability | Trigen Laboratories, LLC | Methylphenidate Hydrochloride, Tablet, Extended Release, 72 mg (NDC 13811-710-30) | September 16, 2026 |
| Current | Limited Availability | Trigen Laboratories, LLC | Methylphenidate Hydrochloride, Tablet, Extended Release, 36 mg (NDC 13811-708-10) | September 16, 2026 |
| Current | Limited Availability | Trigen Laboratories, LLC | Methylphenidate Hydrochloride, Tablet, Extended Release, 27 mg (NDC 13811-707-10) | September 16, 2026 |
| Current | Limited Availability | Teva Pharmaceuticals USA, Inc. | Methylphenidate Hydrochloride, Tablet, Extended Release, 36 mg (NDC 62037-726-01) | September 15, 2026 |
| Current | Available | Teva Pharmaceuticals USA, Inc. | Methylphenidate Hydrochloride, Tablet, Extended Release, 27 mg (NDC 62037-734-01) | September 15, 2026 |
| Current | Limited Availability | Teva Pharmaceuticals USA, Inc. | Methylphenidate Hydrochloride, Tablet, Extended Release, 18 mg (NDC 62037-725-01) | September 15, 2026 |
| Current | Limited Availability | Lannett Company, Inc. | Methylphenidate Hydrochloride, Tablet, Extended Release, 36 mg (NDC 62175-312-37) | September 15, 2026 |
| Current | Limited Availability | Lannett Company, Inc. | Methylphenidate Hydrochloride, Tablet, Extended Release, 27 mg (NDC 62175-311-37) | September 15, 2026 |
| Current | Available | Lannett Company, Inc. | Methylphenidate Hydrochloride, Tablet, Extended Release, 54 mg (NDC 62175-313-37) | September 15, 2026 |
| Current | Available | Teva Pharmaceuticals USA, Inc. | Methylphenidate Hydrochloride, Tablet, Extended Release, 54 mg (NDC 62037-727-01) | September 15, 2026 |
| Current | Available | Lannett Company, Inc. | Methylphenidate Hydrochloride, Tablet, Extended Release, 18 mg (NDC 62175-310-37) | September 15, 2026 |
Packaging and NDCs
Source: NDC Directory| Package NDC | Product NDC | Labeler | Description | Marketing start |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 67877-602-91 | 67877-602 | Ascend Laboratories, LLC | 500 mL in 1 BOTTLE (67877-602-91) | April 1, 2020 |
| 67877-603-91 | 67877-603 | Ascend Laboratories, LLC | 500 mL in 1 BOTTLE (67877-603-91) | April 1, 2020 |
| 43602-177-05 | 43602-177 | Ascent Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | 500 mL in 1 BOTTLE (43602-177-05) | January 29, 2021 |
| 43602-177-25 | 43602-177 | Ascent Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | 250 mL in 1 BOTTLE (43602-177-25) | January 29, 2021 |
| 43602-178-05 | 43602-178 | Ascent Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | 500 mL in 1 BOTTLE (43602-178-05) | January 29, 2021 |
| 43602-178-25 | 43602-178 | Ascent Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | 250 mL in 1 BOTTLE (43602-178-25) | January 29, 2021 |
| 63629-1175-1 | 63629-1175 | Bryant Ranch Prepack | 500 mL in 1 BOTTLE (63629-1175-1) | July 26, 2022 |
| 63629-1176-1 | 63629-1176 | Bryant Ranch Prepack | 500 mL in 1 BOTTLE (63629-1176-1) | June 29, 2021 |
| 72162-1992-5 | 72162-1992 | Bryant Ranch Prepack | 500 mL in 1 BOTTLE (72162-1992-5) | April 3, 2024 |
| 72162-1993-5 | 72162-1993 | Bryant Ranch Prepack | 500 mL in 1 BOTTLE (72162-1993-5) | February 5, 2024 |
| 72162-2040-5 | 72162-2040 | Bryant Ranch Prepack | 500 mL in 1 BOTTLE, PLASTIC (72162-2040-5) | April 3, 2024 |
| 72162-2041-5 | 72162-2041 | Bryant Ranch Prepack | 500 mL in 1 BOTTLE, PLASTIC (72162-2041-5) | April 3, 2024 |
| 27808-058-01 | 27808-058 | Cranbury Pharmaceuticals, LLC | 500 mL in 1 BOTTLE, PLASTIC (27808-058-01) | March 4, 2015 |
| 27808-059-01 | 27808-059 | Cranbury Pharmaceuticals, LLC | 500 mL in 1 BOTTLE, PLASTIC (27808-059-01) | March 4, 2015 |
| 71930-024-52 | 71930-024 | Eywa Pharma Inc | 500 mL in 1 BOTTLE (71930-024-52) | March 29, 2019 |
| 71930-025-52 | 71930-025 | Eywa Pharma Inc | 500 mL in 1 BOTTLE (71930-025-52) | March 29, 2019 |
| 43386-930-05 | 43386-930 | Lupin Pharmaceuticals,Inc. | 500 mL in 1 BOTTLE (43386-930-05) | December 15, 2015 |
| 43386-931-05 | 43386-931 | Lupin Pharmaceuticals,Inc. | 500 mL in 1 BOTTLE (43386-931-05) | December 15, 2015 |
| 70752-131-14 | 70752-131 | QUAGEN PHARMACEUTICALS LLC | 500 mL in 1 BOTTLE, PLASTIC (70752-131-14) | June 4, 2020 |
| 70752-132-14 | 70752-132 | QUAGEN PHARMACEUTICALS LLC | 500 mL in 1 BOTTLE, PLASTIC (70752-132-14) | June 4, 2020 |
| 67877-602 | 67877-602 | Ascend Laboratories, LLC | — | April 1, 2020 |
| 67877-603 | 67877-603 | Ascend Laboratories, LLC | — | April 1, 2020 |
| 43602-177 | 43602-177 | Ascent Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | — | January 29, 2021 |
| 43602-178 | 43602-178 | Ascent Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | — | January 29, 2021 |
| 63629-1175 | 63629-1175 | Bryant Ranch Prepack | — | March 29, 2019 |
| 63629-1176 | 63629-1176 | Bryant Ranch Prepack | — | March 29, 2019 |
| 72162-1992 | 72162-1992 | Bryant Ranch Prepack | — | March 29, 2019 |
| 72162-1993 | 72162-1993 | Bryant Ranch Prepack | — | March 29, 2019 |
| 72162-2040 | 72162-2040 | Bryant Ranch Prepack | — | March 4, 2015 |
| 72162-2041 | 72162-2041 | Bryant Ranch Prepack | — | March 4, 2015 |
| 27808-058 | 27808-058 | Cranbury Pharmaceuticals, LLC | — | March 4, 2015 |
| 27808-059 | 27808-059 | Cranbury Pharmaceuticals, LLC | — | March 4, 2015 |
| 71930-024 | 71930-024 | Eywa Pharma Inc | — | March 29, 2019 |
| 71930-025 | 71930-025 | Eywa Pharma Inc | — | March 29, 2019 |
| 43386-930 | 43386-930 | Lupin Pharmaceuticals,Inc. | — | December 15, 2015 |
| 43386-931 | 43386-931 | Lupin Pharmaceuticals,Inc. | — | December 15, 2015 |
| 70752-131 | 70752-131 | QUAGEN PHARMACEUTICALS LLC | — | June 4, 2020 |
| 70752-132 | 70752-132 | QUAGEN PHARMACEUTICALS LLC | — | June 4, 2020 |
Sources for this page
| Dataset | Agency | Used for |
|---|---|---|
| NDC Directory | FDA | Identity, ingredients, strengths, forms, routes, labelers, packages |
| Drugs@FDA | FDA | Application, sponsor, submissions, review documents, marketing status |
| Orange Book | FDA | Therapeutic equivalence codes, reference drug flags, patents, exclusivity |
| Drug Labeling | FDA / NLM | Prescribing information reproduced above |
| FAERS | FDA | Adverse event report counts |
| Drug Shortages | FDA | Supply availability |
Generated September 25, 2026 · 13 sections on this page.