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Sir: Methylphenidate is a piperidine derivative, structurallyrelated to amphetamines. It reaches peak blood concentrationin 2 hours and has a short half-life of 1 to 2hours. Its onset of action occurs shortly after dosing, andit can cause increased wakefulness, energy, alertness, andphysical and mental performance. Its side effects includeanorexia, weight loss, slow growth, insomnia, dysphoria,tics, and psychosis.