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Event Related Potentials (ERPs) and other EEG Based Methods for Extracting Biomarkers of Brain Dysfunction: Examples from Pediatric Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
10:02

Event Related Potentials (ERPs) and other EEG Based Methods for Extracting Biomarkers of Brain Dysfunction: Examples from Pediatric Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Published on: March 12, 2020

Methylphenidate: growth retardation

    Prescrire International
    |October 6, 2011
    PubMed

    Insights

    Methylphenidate treatment for ADHD may slow growth in children, but final adult height is typically unaffected. Catch-up growth often occurs after stopping the medication.

    Area of Science:

    • Pediatrics
    • Pharmacology
    • Child Psychology

    Background:

    • Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is commonly treated with psychostimulants like methylphenidate.
    • Concerns exist regarding the impact of these medications on childhood growth and development.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To evaluate the effects of methylphenidate on height and weight changes in children with ADHD.
    • To assess the long-term impact on final adult height and identify factors influencing growth retardation.

    Main Methods:

    • A randomized trial involving 521 hyperactive children.
    • Longitudinal monitoring of height and weight over 3 years.
    • Systematic reviews of existing literature on methylphenidate and growth.

    Main Results:

    • Methylphenidate treatment was associated with reduced annual height and weight gain (-1.23 cm/year and -2.48 kg/year).
    • Growth slowed by approximately 1-1.5 cm per year, with catch-up growth observed after treatment cessation.
    • No significant difference in final adult height was found compared to untreated individuals.

    Conclusions:

    • Methylphenidate can temporarily slow growth, likely due to appetite suppression.
    • Final adult height is generally not affected by methylphenidate treatment.
    • Regular growth monitoring during prescription renewals is crucial; dose adjustment or interruption may be needed for significant growth retardation.

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