ADHD, Methylphenidate, and Childhood Epilepsy

Rahul Sharma1, Sigita Plioplys1

  • 1Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL; Departments of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL.

Pediatric Neurology Briefs
|September 13, 2016
PubMed

Insights

This study explored ADHD severity in children with epilepsy (CWE) and their response to methylphenidate (MPH). Findings inform treatment strategies for this complex pediatric population.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Pediatric Neurology
  • Epileptology

Background:

  • Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is common in children with epilepsy (CWE).
  • Understanding ADHD determinants in CWE is crucial for effective management.
  • Methylphenidate (MPH) is a common treatment, but its efficacy in CWE requires further investigation.

Discussion:

  • The study investigated clinical factors influencing ADHD severity in children with epilepsy.
  • It also assessed the treatment response to methylphenidate (MPH) in this specific pediatric group.
  • Results provide insights into the complex interplay between epilepsy and ADHD.

Key Insights:

  • Identified key clinical determinants of ADHD severity in children with epilepsy.
  • Evaluated the effectiveness and clinical response to methylphenidate treatment in CWE.
  • Highlights the need for tailored therapeutic approaches for comorbid ADHD in epilepsy.

Outlook:

  • Further research can refine treatment protocols for ADHD in children with epilepsy.
  • This study contributes to a better understanding of neurodevelopmental comorbidities in pediatric epilepsy.
  • Future studies may explore alternative or adjunctive therapies for ADHD in CWE.

Related Concept Videos

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder01:30

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It affects approximately 5-8% of children globally, with around 60-70% of cases persisting into adulthood. ADHD has significant implications for educational attainment, social interactions, and occupational success.
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings....
1.2K
Parkinson's Disease: Treatment01:24

Parkinson's Disease: Treatment

Neurodegenerative disorders, such as Parkinson's Disease (PD), involve the gradual and irreversible destruction of neurons in particular brain areas. These disorders exhibit standard features like proteinopathies, selective vulnerability of some neurons, and an interaction of intrinsic properties, genetics, and environmental influences in neural injury.
Parkinson's Disease is primarily a result of the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta. The cornerstone of...
1.3K
Cognitive Enhancers: Cholinesterase Inhibitors and NMDA Receptor Antagonists01:30

Cognitive Enhancers: Cholinesterase Inhibitors and NMDA Receptor Antagonists

Cognitive enhancers, also known as "smart drugs," are substances used to enhance memory, mental alertness, and concentration. These can be natural or synthetic and improve cognition in conditions like Alzheimer's disease (AD) and other neurodegenerative diseases. Some common examples include caffeine, amphetamines, methylphenidate, modafinil, arecoline, donepezil, vortioxetine, and piracetam. These enhancers work on the principle of synaptic plasticity and altered circuit function.
793
CNS Stimulants: Cocaine, Amphetamines and Cannabinoids01:24

CNS Stimulants: Cocaine, Amphetamines and Cannabinoids

CNS stimulants, such as cocaine, amphetamines, and cannabinoids, have varying structures and mechanisms of action that lead to different therapeutic effects and side effects. Cocaine, with its molecular formula C17H21NO4, is a tropane alkaloid and a tertiary amino compound. It has two chemical forms: the hydrochloride salt and the "freebase." The former is in powder form, while the latter involves removing the hydrochloride salt to create a form that can be smoked. Cocaine exerts its...
1.1K
Adrenergic Agonists: Mixed-Action Agents01:28

Adrenergic Agonists: Mixed-Action Agents

Mixed-action adrenergic agonists, like ephedrine and pseudoephedrine, directly and indirectly affect adrenergic receptors. These agents stimulate adrenoceptors and indirectly release stored neurotransmitters, amplifying the adrenergic response.
Ephedrine and pseudoephedrine lack a catecholamine group, making them less susceptible to degradation by metabolic enzymes. They have increased oral bioavailability and lipophilicity, resulting in a longer duration of action. Their response is reduced by...
1.7K
Alzheimer's Disease: Treatment01:22

Alzheimer's Disease: Treatment

Alzheimer's Disease (AD), a neurodegenerative disorder, is pathologically identified by amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles composed of tau protein. AD pharmacotherapy aims to manage cognitive symptoms, delay disease progression, and treat behavioral symptoms. The treatment is primarily symptomatic and palliative, with no definitive disease-modifying therapy available. Cholinesterase inhibitors, including donepezil (Aricept), rivastigmine (Exelon), and galantamine (Razadyne), are...
1.1K