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Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder and methylphenidate. A review of height/weight, cardiovascular, and somatic
Mark D Rapport1, Catherine Moffitt
1Department of Psychology, University of Central Florida, P.O. Box 161390, Orlando, FL 32816, USA. mrapport@pegasus.cc.ucf.edu
Abstract:
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.
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Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings.