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Dexmethylphenidate


Mechanism of action:

Dexmethylphenidate is a central nervous system stimulant with norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitory activity. It is a piperidine carboxylate derivative and the (R,R)-enantiomer of methylphenidate, with dextrorotatory optical activity. Dexmethylphenidate inhibits the activity of the norepinephrine transporter and dopamine transporter in presynaptic neurons, preventing the reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine into the presynaptic terminal. This enhances their action on postsynaptic neurons and improves central nervous system functions related to attention, focus, and impulse control.

Reference(s):

1. Sun Z et al. (2004). Methylphenidate is stereoselectively hydrolyzed by human carboxylesterase CES1A1. J Pharmacol Exp Ther. 


2. Liu F et al. (2006). Dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat.

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