title: ADHD treatment with once-daily OROS methylphenidate: final results from a long-term open-label study.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  Few studies have assessed effectiveness and tolerability of stimulants when used for prolonged periods in children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This article presents final results from an open-label, multisite study of a once-daily formulation of methylphenidate (MPH), OROS MPH.
  
  
  METHODS
  Subjects received OROS MPH (18-54 mg initially, with adjustments based on clinical condition) for up to 24 months. Multiple measures of ADHD symptoms, vital signs, weight, height, and laboratory results were assessed throughout the study period.
  
  
  RESULTS
  A total of 407 children enrolled in the open-label study and 229 completed the trial. Effectiveness of OROS MPH therapy was maintained throughout the study as indicated by parent and investigator assessments. There was a 26% increase in mean daily dose over the study period, with the majority of the increase occurring during year 1. In general, treatment was well tolerated, with 31 (7.6%) of subjects discontinuing because of adverse events. Minimal effects on growth in height and weight were observed during the study. No clinically significant effects on vital signs or laboratory test parameters were observed.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  : Sustained effectiveness of OROS MPH was maintained for up to 24 months with minimal effects on growth, tics, vital signs, or laboratory test values.
authors.affiliation: Massachusetts General Hospital, Pediatric Psychopharmacology, Boston, MA 02114, USA. twilens@partners.org
authors.forename: Timothy
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Wilens
authors.forename: Keith
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: McBurnett
authors.forename: Mark
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Stein
authors.forename: Marc
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Lerner
authors.forename: Thomas
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Spencer
authors.forename: Mark
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Wolraich
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D001289:Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / Q000188:drug therapy*; D000697:Central Nervous System Stimulants / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D004334:Drug Administration Schedule; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008774:Methylphenidate / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D008875:Middle Aged
chemical_list: D000697:Central Nervous System Stimulants; D008774:Methylphenidate