Methylphenidate was developed as a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant in the 1960s. It acts primarily as a re-uptake inhibitor for dopamine and norepinephrine and has found widespread application in the treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), as the symptoms of this condition are believed to be linked to depressed levels of these neurotransmitters. Methylphenidate formulations include tablets containing 5, 10 or 20 mg of the active ingredient and slow-release tablets containing up to 40 mg.

Methylphenidate is listed within the 1971 UN Convention on Psychotropic Substances as a Schedule II material. In the UK, it is controlled as a Class B material and as a Schedule 2 substance under the Misuse of Drugs Regulations.

Although ethylphenidate is by far the most widely available of this group, other variants are already in the market place. In the short term, to address the widespread availability of methylphenidate-based NPS and the associated problems which are being reported, the ACMD has considered the evidence on methylphenidate-based NPS and recommends control of these NPS.

These documents outline recommendations from the Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs (ACMD) on controlling a number of methylphenidate-based novel psychoactive substances (NPS) under a temporary class drug order.