History

• Historically, ADD and ADHD eluded physicians and scientists and was thought to be a psychological disorder that caused an inability to focus and/or sit still for any extended period of time. The first public record of what was to become labeled ADD/ADHD was published in 1845 in the form of "The Story of Fidgety Philip" by Dr. Heinrich Hoffman, according to MentalHelp.net.
  
  The disorder continued to fall under several different diagnoses, and not until 1957 did the first stimulant medication become available for treating these symptoms. That drug, methylphenidate, is still used today.
  
  

Drug Composition

• Methylphenidate is a synthetic "mild central nervous system stimulant that affects certain chemicals in the brain and nerves that are related to impulse control and hyperactivity," according to Drugs.com. Methylphenidate hydrochloride is the active component. It is available in short-acting and extended-release forms.
  
  

Action

• Although the action of methylphenidate is widely unknown, most health professionals believe that the drug affects two neurotransmitters in the brain: dopamine and noradrenaline. The drug, a "reuptake inhibitor," allows for more of these chemicals to be present in the body. Patients with ADD/ADHD are known to have lower levels of these two chemicals, and increasing them has proven to help alleviate some of the disorder's symptoms.
  
  

Interactions

• Methylphenidate interacts with several other medications, and in some cases it can cause life-threatening reactions. Methylphenidate users must tell their doctor immediately if any type of blood pressure medication is taken, according to RxList.com. Methylphenidate is believed to negate the efficacy of blood pressure medications, thus leaving the patient in danger.
  
  The drug also interacts with many psychotropic medications such as tricyclic anti-depressants, anti-convulsants and MAO inhibitors. It is imperative that you notify your physician of all medications currently taken.
  
  

Side Effects

• Methylphenidate is a central nervous system stimulant, with side effects including but not limited to dizziness, drowsiness, headache, loss of appetite, nausea, nervousness, stomach pain, trouble sleeping, heart palpitations and anger. If you experience these or any other unusual symptoms, contact your physician immediately.