Metabolomics of Methylphenidate and Ethylphenidate: Implications in Pharmacological and Toxicological Effects

• Type: Another Publication in an International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2017

Authors

Ricardo Jorge Dinis Oliveira (Author) FMUP

Journal

Title: European Journal of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics

Vol. 42

Pages: 11-16

ISSN: 0378-7966

Publisher: Springer Nature

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 17 Citations

Scopus - 16 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-00K-P2M

DOI: 10.1007/s13318-016-0362-1

Abstract (EN): Methylphenidate (MPH) is primarily indicated for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and narcolepsy therapy. A marked individual variability in the dose-response has been observed, and therefore dosage must be titrated for optimal therapeutic effect with minimal toxicity. This variability has been claimed to be predominantly pharmacokinetic. Moreover, due to its similar pharmacodynamics to amphetamine, MPH has been abused and fatalities have been reported. This review aims to discuss metabolomics of MPH, namely by presenting all major and minor metabolites. Ritalinic acid is the main metabolite. In addition, minor pathways involving aromatic hydroxylation, microsomal oxidation and conjugation have also been reported to form the p-hydroxy-, oxo- and conjugated metabolites, respectively. MPH may undergo transesterification with ethanol producing ethylphenidate, which is also pharmacologically active. It is expected that knowing the metabolomics of MPH may provide further insights regarding individual contribution for MPH pharmacodynamics and toxicological effects, namely if ethanol is coconsumed.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 6