Mazindol is an amphetamine-like medicine which was developed by Sandoz in 1967 and approved by FDA for the treatment of obesity and Duchenne muscular dystrophy under the names Sanorex and Mazanor. The exact mechanism of action is unknown, but possibly involves the stimulation of beta-adrenergic receptors and inhibition of monoamine reuptake. Both Sanorex and Mazanor were withdrawn from the market by reason other than safety. NLS Pharma now is developing mazindol for Attention Hyperactivity Disorder in adults (phase II).

Pentetrazol (pentylenetetrazole, BTD-001) is a pharmaceutical agent that displays activity as a central nervous system and respiratory stimulant. It is considered a non-competitive gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) antagonist. Pentetrazol (pentylenetetrazole) has been used experimentally to study seizure phenomenon and to identify pharmaceuticals that may control seizure susceptibility. GABA is thought to play a role in promoting sleep and its function is believed to be elevated in idiopathic hypersomnia. By blocking GABA’s function, pentetrazol (pentylenetetrazole, BTD-001) is expected to reduce excessive daytime sleepiness.

Dexmethylphenidate is the dextrorotary form of methylphenidate. Dexmethylphenidate is marketed under the trade name Focalin. Focalin (dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride) is the d-threo-enantiomer of racemic methylphenidate hydrochloride, which is a 50/50 mixture of the d-threo and l-threoenantiomers. Focalin is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant, available in three tablet strengths. Each tablet contains dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride 2.5, 5, or 10 mg for oral administration. Dexmethylphenidate is used as a treatment for ADHD, ideally in conjunction with psychological, educational, behavioral or other forms of treatment. Methylphenidate blocks dopamine uptake in central adrenergic neurons by blocking dopamine transport or carrier proteins. Methylphenidate acts at the brain stem arousal system and the cerebral cortex and causes increased sympathomimetic activity in the central nervous system. Methylphenidate is a catecholamine reuptake inhibitor that indirectly increases catecholaminergic neurotransmission by inhibiting the dopamine transporter (DAT) and norepinephrine transporter (NET), which are responsible for clearing catecholamines from the synapse, particularly in the striatum and meso-limbic system.