It is chemically unrelated to methylphenidate or amphetamine. When compared to methylphenidate and amphetamine, it seems less likely to cause irritability and jitteriness. It appears to act on the frontal cortex and is more selective in its area of action than the traditional stimulants. A women who has hormone-related exacerbation of mood or attention span might benefit from a stimulant, estrogen supplementation an SSRI or a combination of these medications. Since estrogen affects many systems in the body, each woman should review the risks and benefits with her gynecologist.
More systematic research is needed.
However, there has been a suggestion that poor regulation of the nicotinic receptors may also be involved. Nicotine enhances dopaminergic neurotransmission. Studies may focus on more selective compounds in this category that produce an effect without the negative side effects of nicotine.