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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
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Risperidone Versus Methylphenidate in Treatment of Preschool Children With Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Fariba Arabgol1, Leily Panaghi2, Vahid Nikzad3

  • 1Behavioral Science Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IR Iran.

Iranian Journal of Pediatrics
|July 23, 2015
PubMed

Insights

Risperidone and Methylphenidate (MPH) showed similar effectiveness in treating preschool ADHD over six weeks. Both medications improved symptoms, though MPH caused more anorexia, while risperidone caused drowsiness and anorexia.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Psychiatry
  • Child Psychology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a prevalent psychiatric condition in preschool-aged children.
  • Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for managing ADHD symptoms and improving long-term outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To compare the efficacy and tolerability of Risperidone versus Methylphenidate (MPH) in preschool children diagnosed with ADHD.
  • To evaluate treatment outcomes using standardized ADHD rating scales and assess adverse effects.

Main Methods:

  • A 6-week, double-blind clinical trial involving 33 preschool children (aged 3-6 years) with ADHD.
  • Participants received either risperidone (0.5-1.5 mg/d) or methylphenidate (5-20 mg/d) in divided doses.
  • Outcomes were measured using the Parent ADHD Rating Scale and Conners Rating Scale, with assessments at baseline and at 2, 4, and 6 weeks.

Main Results:

  • No significant differences were observed between risperidone and MPH on the Parent ADHD Rating Scale or Parent Conners Rating Scale scores.
  • Both treatment groups demonstrated significant improvement in ADHD symptoms over the 6-week study period.
  • Common side effects included anorexia with both medications, daytime drowsiness with risperidone, and anorexia with methylphenidate.

Conclusions:

  • Risperidone appears to be an effective and well-tolerated treatment option for ADHD in preschool children, comparable to MPH.
  • Further research is warranted to fully understand the long-term benefits and risks of risperidone, especially in children with comorbid conditions.
Abstract

Keywords:
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity DisorderMethylphenidatePreschool ChildrenRisperidone

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