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Chronic exposure to methylphenidate impairs appendicular bone quality in young rats
David E Komatsu1, Panayotis K Thanos, Michelle N Mary
1Department of Orthopaedics, Stony Brook University, HSC Level 18, Room 085, Stony Brook, NY 11794-8181, USA. david.komatsu@sbumed.org
Bone
|April 3, 2012
Summary
Methylphenidate (MP) treatment in adolescent rats led to smaller, weaker bones in limbs but not the spine. These skeletal effects resolved after stopping MP, suggesting temporary risks for fractures during treatment.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Pharmacology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Methylphenidate (MP) is a common psychostimulant for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
- Concerns exist regarding potential growth deficits and skeletal alterations in pediatric patients undergoing MP treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of chronic Methylphenidate (MP) administration on skeletal development and integrity in adolescent rats.
- To determine if observed skeletal changes persist after MP treatment cessation.
Main Methods:
- Adolescent male rats received low or high doses of MP for 13 weeks, with a subset undergoing a 5-week recovery period.
- Skeletal analysis included measurements of bone dimensions, bone mineral density (BMD), bone mineral content (BMC), and mechanical properties of femora and tibiae.
- Vertebral samples (L5) were also analyzed for comparison.
Main Results:
- MP treatment reduced femoral diameter, BMD, and BMC in a dose-dependent manner.
- Mechanical testing revealed decreased ultimate force and energy to failure in femora of MP-treated rats.
- No significant skeletal differences were observed after the 5-week recovery period or in vertebral samples.
Conclusions:
- Chronic MP administration negatively impacts appendicular skeletal dimensions, mineralization, and strength in adolescent rats.
- These effects are reversible upon cessation of MP treatment.
- While vertebral bone was unaffected, the temporary limb bone alterations suggest a potential increased risk for long bone fractures during MP therapy.
