What is another name for methylphenidate?

Methylphenidate is the generice (chemical) name for the brand name drug Ritalin. It is a Central Nervous System stimulant that acts on the brain in the same maner as Cocaine (with a longer half life and slower onset of action). It is prescribed for ADHD and sometimes off label for weight loss. It is a schedule II controlled substance in the United States (the strictest schedule for prescribed drugs, schedule I drugs being available solely for research purposes).

I am an RX Technician and can personally testify to the addictive potential of Methylphen. I cannot tell you how upset customers have become when there has been a delay due to insurance coverage or other billing issues related to the prescribing of this drug. It has been made very clear to me that certain customers felt that they could not function or live their lives normally without taking this substance daily. I would equate its addiction potential to opiates.