As a scientist, I would be cautious of inferring the reason and beating ourselves up for it until we have crystal clear proof that that is the specific thing that's turning people away.
I start to feel as if I was on the verge of having a panic attack
Methylphenedate felt weird and unpleasant the first few times for me too. But once my body got used to it, it essentially just had the ADHD quelling effects of a strong coffee, but better and broader. (When I took a bit too much I also felt like ODing on caffeine). IMO I'd give it a few more tries, although obv I don't know how bad the first try felt for you.
At least the Latin name is still diplomatic, as always