Methylphenidate (MPH), a psychotropic medication is commonly used for children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). In this study we elucidated the neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects of MPH and Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary) extract, an ancient aromatic herb with several applications in traditional medicine. Briefly, six groups of mice (n = 8 each group), were specified for the study and behavioral analysis was performed to analyze spatial memory followed by histological assessment and gene expression analysis of synaptic (Syn I, II and III) and inflammatory markers (IL-6, TNFα and GFAP) via qRT-PCR, in an AlCl₃-induced mouse model for neurotoxicity. The behavioral analysis demonstrated significant cognitive decline, memory defects and altered gene expression in AlCl₃-treated group. Rosemary extract significantly decreased the expression of inflammatory and synaptic markers to the similar levels as that of MPH. The present findings suggested the neuroprotective potential of Rosmarinus officinalis extract. However, further characterization of its anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties and MPH is required to strategize future treatments for several neurological and neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer's disease.

Keywords: Inflammation; Methylphenidate; Neurodegeneration; Neurotoxicity; Rosmarinus officinalis.