Methylphenidate decreases regional cerebral blood flow in normal human subjects

Life Sci. 1994;54(9):PL143-6. doi: 10.1016/0024-3205(94)00873-6.

Abstract

To assess the effects of methylphenidate (MP) on cerebral blood flow (CBF), 5 healthy males were studied using 15O-water and positron emission tomography before and after MP (0.5 mg/kg iv). MP significantly decreased whole brain CBF at 5-10 minutes (25 +/- 11%) and at 30 minutes (20 +/- 10%) after its administration. Decrements in CBF were homogeneous throughout the brain (regional decrements 23-30%) and probably reflect the vasoactive properties of MP. The vasoactive properties of MP should be considered when prescribing this drug chronically and/or when giving it to subjects with cerebrovascular compromise.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Blood Pressure / drug effects
  • Cerebrovascular Circulation / drug effects*
  • Depression, Chemical
  • Heart Rate / drug effects
  • Humans
  • Injections, Intravenous
  • Male
  • Methylphenidate / pharmacokinetics
  • Methylphenidate / pharmacology*

Substances

  • Methylphenidate