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Related Experiment Videos

Are too many children being treated with methylphenidate?

J M Ruel1, C P Hickey

  • 1Bureau of Dangerous Drugs, Health and Welfare Canada, Ottawa, Ontario.

Canadian Journal of Psychiatry. Revue Canadienne De Psychiatrie
|October 1, 1992
PubMed
Summary

Methylphenidate use in British Columbia showed no issues for children diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. However, adult prescriptions for methylphenidate raised concerns regarding controversial prescribing practices.

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Area of Science:

  • Pharmacology
  • Pediatrics
  • Psychiatry

Background:

  • Methylphenidate is a central nervous system stimulant.
  • Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder.
  • Concerns exist regarding the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD in both pediatric and adult populations.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To survey methylphenidate use in British Columbia over six months.
  • To assess the prevalence of methylphenidate treatment for hyperactivity in children.
  • To evaluate the appropriateness of methylphenidate prescriptions in adults.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective survey of methylphenidate prescriptions.
  • Data analysis of patient demographics and diagnostic codes.

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  • Review of stated reasons for methylphenidate prescription.

    • Main Results:

    • Data did not indicate a disproportionate number of children treated for hyperactivity.
    • No significant problem was identified regarding the diagnosis of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children.
    • A significant number of adult methylphenidate prescriptions were based on controversial reasons.

    Conclusions:

    • Current prescribing practices for pediatric attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in British Columbia appear appropriate.
    • The study highlights potential issues with the off-label use of methylphenidate in adults.
    • Further investigation into adult methylphenidate prescribing patterns is warranted.