- Last edited on March 9, 2021
Biphentin® (methylphenidate)
Primer
Biphentin® (methylphenidate) is a stimulant medication in the methylphenidate class used primarily in the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Pharmacokinetics
- Two “pulses” of methylphenidate are released (each pulse lasts about 4-5 hours)
- Immediate release pulse is about 40% of the drug
- Controlled release is about the other 60%
- Has a multi-layer release mechanism
- Purportedly lasts 10-12 hours, but more likely 8-10 hours
Pharmacodynamics
- Formulations: 10, 15, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 80mg caps
- Starting dose: 10 to 20mg qAM
- Titration: increase by 5-10mg qWeekly
- Maximum dose: 60 mg in children/adolescents, 80 mg in adults
Pearls
- Called “Bi”-phentin because it mimics “BI”D Ritalin (methylphenidate)
- High abuse potential!
- Capsules may be opened up and the beads inside sprinkled on soft foods (e.g. — apple sauce, yogurt, ice cream)