This study investigated the short-term effects of methylphenidate, a stimulant typically used for ADHD, in patients with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS). The study included 60 patients and used a double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover design.

Results showed that methylphenidate significantly reduced fatigue and concentration disturbances compared to baseline and placebo. However, only a minority of patients experienced clinically significant improvements.

This study explored the effects of methylphenidate (Ritalin) on brain glucose metabolism in healthy adults performing cognitive tasks. When participants took methylphenidate, their brains used significantly less glucose during the tasks compared to when they took a placebo. The drug appeared to reduce brain activity in areas involved in mind-wandering, which led to improved performance for some participants.

However, methylphenidate did not change brain metabolism when no cognitive task was given.

This study examined the effects of Methylphenidate (MPH) on social conformity in 38 healthy adult females. Participants rated the trustworthiness of faces, saw peer ratings, and then re-rated the faces after taking either MPH or a placebo. The MPH group showed twice the conformity effect compared to the placebo group, suggesting that MPH may enhance weaker social signals leading to increased conformity.

This effect was not observed when there were large conflicts in ratings, indicating MPH's role in enhancing only moderate social influences.

This study explored the use of methylphenidate, typically prescribed for ADHD, in reducing intravenous amphetamine use among patients with severe dependence. Over 20 weeks, patients who received methylphenidate had fewer amphetamine-positive urine samples compared to those given a placebo. This suggests methylphenidate might help reduce illegal amphetamine use in cases of severe dependence.

Although the study was stopped early, the results indicate potential benefits of using methylphenidate outside of ADHD treatment.

Methylphenidate, commonly known as Ritalin or Concerta, is primarily used for ADHD, yet its potential extends beyond. Studies suggest it may aid concentration and reduce fatigue in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome but shows varied clinical significance.

In healthy adults, it alters brain activity during tasks but not at rest, potentially boosting task performance. Its effect on enhancing social conformity and reducing amphetamine use further highlights its capabilities outside ADHD.

Background studies accentuate ongoing research in cognitive impairments post-stroke, cancer-related fatigue, and HIV implications, underscoring the balance of evaluating potential benefits against risks in these diverse settings.