Comparative Pharmacology
Head-to-head clinical analysis: DEXTROSTAT versus METHYLIN.
Peer-Reviewed Evidence
Head-to-head clinical analysis: DEXTROSTAT versus METHYLIN.
DEXTROSTAT vs METHYLIN
Comparing the clinical profiles, pharmacokinetic behaviors, and safety indices of these two therapeutic agents.
Dextroamphetamine is a central nervous system stimulant that promotes release of dopamine and norepinephrine from presynaptic neurons, and inhibits their reuptake, thereby increasing synaptic concentrations of these neurotransmitters.
Methylphenidate is a central nervous system stimulant. It blocks the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine into presynaptic neurons, increasing their concentrations in the synaptic cleft.
5-60 mg orally per day in divided doses, typically 5-10 mg 2-3 times daily, maximum 60 mg/day.
10 mg orally twice daily, administered 4-6 hours apart; doses may be adjusted in 5-10 mg increments weekly up to 60 mg/day.
None Documented
None Documented
Terminal elimination half-life is approximately 10-13 hours in adults, 6-8 hours in children. Extended duration allows once-daily dosing in some patients.
2-4 hours (short elimination half-life, requiring multiple daily dosing; immediate-release: 3-4 hours, extended-release: 3-6 hours)
Primarily renal (approximately 90% as unchanged drug and metabolites); minor biliary/fecal elimination (<10%).
Renal: 90% (mainly as metabolites, 30-50% as unchanged drug); fecal: <1%
Category C
Category C
CNS Stimulant
CNS Stimulant