Amphetamine vs. Methylphenidate — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Updated on September 19, 2023
Amphetamine is a central nervous system stimulant affecting neurotransmitters. Methylphenidate, also a stimulant, is primarily used to treat ADHD. Both have different chemical structures and mechanisms.
Difference Between Amphetamine and Methylphenidate
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Key Differences
Amphetamine and Methylphenidate are both central nervous system stimulants, but they have distinct chemical structures. Amphetamine directly increases the release and slows the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain.
Methylphenidate, often recognized by its brand name, Ritalin, is primarily prescribed for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Its primary mechanism is inhibiting the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine, thus increasing their concentrations.
While both Amphetamine and Methylphenidate can be prescribed for ADHD, they're not necessarily interchangeable. Their effects, side effects, duration of action, and dosages can vary based on the individual and the specific drug formulation.
Both substances have potential for abuse, with Amphetamine being classified as Schedule II controlled substances in the U.S. due to their addictive nature. Methylphenidate is also a Schedule II controlled substance, signifying a high potential for abuse.
In therapeutic settings, both drugs can offer significant benefits for patients with ADHD. However, they work in slightly different ways, and their efficacy and side effects might differ from person to person.
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Comparison Chart
Chemical Structure
Unique chemical structure
Distinct from amphetamine
Primary Mechanism
Increases release & slows reuptake of neurotransmitters
Inhibits reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine
Main Use
ADHD, narcolepsy
Primarily ADHD
Abuse Potential
High (Schedule II)
High (Schedule II)
Brand Names
Adderall, Dexedrine, Evekeo
Ritalin, Concerta, Daytrana, Metadate
Compare with Definitions
Amphetamine
A substance with potential for misuse and dependency.
Overuse of Amphetamine can lead to addiction and health issues.
Methylphenidate
A drug prescribed primarily to treat ADHD.
Methylphenidate can help improve focus and reduce impulsive behavior.
Amphetamine
A drug known to elevate mood and increase energy.
Some people misuse Amphetamine as a performance-enhancing substance.
Methylphenidate
A central nervous system stimulant affecting dopamine and norepinephrine.
Methylphenidate works by changing neurotransmitter levels in the brain.
Amphetamine
A synthetic drug that stimulates the central nervous system.
Doctors sometimes prescribe Amphetamine for narcolepsy and ADHD.
Methylphenidate
A Schedule II drug in the U.S. due to abuse potential.
Selling Methylphenidate without a valid prescription is a crime.
Amphetamine
A compound that enhances neurotransmitter activity in the brain.
Amphetamine increases alertness and decreases appetite.
Methylphenidate
A substance with potential for misuse and addiction.
Excessive use of Methylphenidate can have negative health consequences.
Amphetamine
A Schedule II controlled substance in the U.S.
Amphetamine possession without a prescription is illegal.
Methylphenidate
Known by its popular brand name, Ritalin.
Some patients find relief from ADHD symptoms with Methylphenidate.
Amphetamine
Amphetamine (contracted from alpha-methylphenethylamine) is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant that is used in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), narcolepsy, and obesity. Amphetamine was discovered in 1887 and exists as two enantiomers: levoamphetamine and dextroamphetamine.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate, sold under the brand name Ritalin among others, is a stimulant drug used to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. It is a first-line medication for ADHD. It may be taken by mouth or applied to the skin, and different formulations have varying durations of effect.Common side effects of methylphenidate include difficulty sleeping, decreased appetite, anxiety, and weight loss.
Amphetamine
A synthetic compound, C9H13N, that occurs as a racemic mixture of two stereoisomers or as one of its stereoisomers (especially dextroamphetamine), derivatives (such as methamphetamine), or salts. Amphetamine acts as a central nervous system stimulant, and various formulations are used in the medical treatment of certain conditions (such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) and illegally as stimulants.
Methylphenidate
A drug, C14H19NO2, chemically related to amphetamine, that acts as a mild stimulant of the central nervous system and is used in its hydrochloride form to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and narcolepsy.
Amphetamine
The racemic freebase of 1-phenylpropan-2-amine; an equal parts mixture of levoamphetamine and dextroamphetamine in their pure amine forms.
Methylphenidate
(medicine) A stimulant used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and narcolepsy, better known by the trade name Ritalin
Amphetamine
(informal) Any mixture of the two amphetamine enantiomers, dextroamphetamine and levoamphetamine.
Methylphenidate
Central nervous system stimulant (trade name Ritalin) used in the treatment of narcolepsy in adults and attention deficit disorder in children
Amphetamine
Referring to a substituted amphetamine; a member of the amphetamine class of chemicals.
Amphetamine
A potent central nervous system stimulant of the phenethylamine chemical class that is used to treat ADHD, narcolepsy, and obesity.
Amphetamine
A central nervous system stimulant that increases energy and decreases appetite; used to treat narcolepsy and some forms of depression
Common Curiosities
Are Amphetamine and Methylphenidate the same?
No, they are different drugs with distinct chemical structures and mechanisms.
Which drug is more potent, Amphetamine or Methylphenidate?
Potency can vary based on the individual and formulation; a doctor should determine the best choice.
Can these drugs be taken recreationally?
Both drugs have a high potential for abuse and can be dangerous when taken outside of a medical context.
Is Methylphenidate another name for Ritalin?
Yes, Ritalin is a brand name for Methylphenidate.
Can both drugs treat ADHD?
Yes, both are prescribed for ADHD but may work differently for individuals.
Are there any natural alternatives to Amphetamine or Methylphenidate for ADHD?
Some individuals explore behavioral therapy or dietary changes, but it's important to consult with a medical professional.
Are there side effects with these medications?
Yes, potential side effects include insomnia, increased heart rate, and more; patients should monitor reactions closely.
Can both drugs cause addiction?
Yes, both have potential for misuse and dependency.
Can adults be prescribed these medications for ADHD?
Yes, both adults and children can be prescribed these medications for ADHD.
Are they available as generic drugs?
Yes, both drugs are available in generic form.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
