From the Guidelines
Biphentin, a long-acting formulation of methylphenidate, has a half-life of approximately 2 hours, as indicated by the pharmacokinetics of its active ingredient 1.
Key Points to Consider
- The half-life of a medication refers to the time it takes for half of the drug to be eliminated from the body, which is an important factor in determining dosing frequency.
- Biphentin is designed to provide an initial immediate release of about 40% of the dose, followed by a controlled release of the remaining medication throughout the day, allowing for once-daily dosing.
- The therapeutic effects of Biphentin last longer than its half-life due to its specialized delivery system, which is designed to provide a steady release of the medication over 10-12 hours.
- Patients should take Biphentin in the morning to avoid sleep disturbances, and the medication should be swallowed whole rather than crushed or chewed to maintain its extended-release properties.
Clinical Implications
- The half-life of Biphentin's active ingredient, methylphenidate, is approximately 2 hours, as reported in a study on psychostimulants for cancer-related fatigue 1.
- Another study on the practice parameter for the use of stimulant medications in the treatment of children, adolescents, and adults, reported that the plasma half-life of methylphenidate ranges between 3 hours 1.
- However, the most recent and highest quality study, which is the one from 2010, indicates a half-life of 2 hours for methylphenidate 1, which is the basis for the recommendation.
- It is essential to consider the clinical implications of the half-life of Biphentin, including the potential for sleep disturbances if taken too close to bedtime, and the importance of swallowing the medication whole to maintain its extended-release properties.
From the FDA Drug Label
The mean terminal half-life (t1/2) of methylphenidate was 2.7 hours following administration of 20 mg methylphenidate hydrochloride oral solution. The half-life of Biphentin (methylphenidate) is 2.7 hours 2.
- Key points:
- The half-life is based on a single dose administration of 20 mg methylphenidate hydrochloride oral solution.
- The terminal half-life (t1/2) is the time it takes for the concentration of the drug to reduce by half.
From the Research
Biphentin Half Life
- The provided studies do not directly mention the half-life of Biphentin, which is a brand name for methylphenidate.
- However, the studies discuss the pharmacokinetics and efficacy of various formulations of methylphenidate, including extended-release and immediate-release formulations 3, 4.
- The half-life of methylphenidate can vary depending on the formulation and individual factors, but it is generally reported to be around 2-4 hours for immediate-release formulations and 6-12 hours for extended-release formulations.
- It is essential to consult the prescribing information or a healthcare professional for specific information on the half-life of Biphentin or other methylphenidate formulations.
- The studies also discuss the efficacy and safety of methylphenidate in treating attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children and adults, including its potential for abuse and cardiovascular effects 5, 6, 7.