Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder and methylphenidate. A review of height/weight, cardiovascular, and somatic complaint side effects.
Three classes (height/weight, cardiovascular, and somatic complaints) of treatment emergent symptoms (side effects) associated with methylphenidate (MPH) therapy for children with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are reviewed. The more easily quantifiable side effects (e.g., blood pressure [BP], heart rate [HR], height/weight) are mostly transient, dose-dependent, easily rectified with dosage adjustments, and considered minor from a clinical perspective considering the breadth and level of improvement in behavior and cognitive functioning observed in most children. Previously reported somatic complaints associated with psychostimulant therapy may reflect symptoms occurring prior to initiation of treatment and require additional study.
Rapport
Mark D
MD
Department of Psychology, University of Central Florida, P.O. Box 161390, Orlando, FL 32816, USA. mrapport@pegasus.cc.ucf.edu
Moffitt
Catherine
C
D001289:Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / Q000188:drug therapy*; D001794:Blood Pressure / Q000187:drug effects; D001827:Body Height / Q000187:drug effects; D001835:Body Weight / Q000187:drug effects; D000697:Central Nervous System Stimulants / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D002648:Child; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D006339:Heart Rate / Q000187:drug effects; D006801:Humans; D008774:Methylphenidate / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D012307:Risk Factors; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D000697:Central Nervous System Stimulants; D008774:Methylphenidate