title: [Clinical use of 30:70 controlled-release methylphenidate in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder].
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most frequent reasons for visits in daily clinical practice, with a prevalence rate of 1-7% in Spain. The effectiveness of stimulants for the treatment of ADHD has been widely demonstrated and methylphenidate (MPD) is the most commonly used. There are currently several different immediate-release or extended-release formulations of MPD on the market.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  To review the characteristics of the different formulations of MPD, with special attention paid to the studies on Equasym®, an extended-release preparation soon to be made available in Spain. The article also includes recommendations for clinical practice and the choice of drugs.
  
  
  METHODS
  Several studies have assessed the effectiveness of Equasym® versus placebo or in comparison to other MPD formulations. The extended-release preparations have a therapeutic action that is similar to that of the immediate-release versions, the difference between them being the plasma concentration profiles over time during the day, which are reflected in the pharmacodynamic effects. Equasym® is more effective in the morning, whereas other formulations, such as Concerta®, allow greater control of the symptoms in the afternoon. These differences are important when it comes to prescribing the treatment.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  One of the main advantages of having different formulations of MPD available is that it allows the professional to choose the drug that best suits the clinical features and needs of each patient. The individual response is the essential criterion in deciding on the most appropriate treatment.
authors.affiliation: Hospital General Gregorio Marañón. Madrid, España. mjmardomingo@aepnya.net
authors.forename: María J
authors.initials: MJ
authors.lastname: Mardomingo-Sanz
mesh_terms: D001289:Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / Q000188:drug therapy*; D018765:Dopamine Uptake Inhibitors / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D004334:Drug Administration Schedule; D006801:Humans; D008774:Methylphenidate / Q000008:administration & dosage*
chemical_list: D018765:Dopamine Uptake Inhibitors; D008774:Methylphenidate