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Lens opacities in children using methylphenidate hydrochloride
Nagihan Saday Duman1, Rahmi Duman2, Emel Sarı Gökten1
1a Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry , Bursa Yüksek İhtisas Training and Research Hospital , Bursa , Turkey , and.
Cutaneous and Ocular Toxicology
|April 6, 2017
Summary
Long-term methylphenidate use in children with ADHD may lead to lens opacities. Regular eye exams are recommended for patients using this medication for over two years.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Pediatrics
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder in children.
- Methylphenidate hydrochloride (MPH) is a widely prescribed stimulant medication for ADHD treatment.
- Ophthalmological effects of long-term MPH use require thorough investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate clinical eye examination findings in children diagnosed with ADHD and treated with methylphenidate hydrochloride.
- To compare ophthalmological parameters between ADHD patients on MPH and healthy controls.
Main Methods:
- A prospective study involving 57 children with ADHD on MPH for over one year (Group 1) and 60 healthy controls (Group 2).
- All participants underwent comprehensive ophthalmological examinations.
- Demographic and treatment data, including MPH dosage and duration, were collected.
Main Results:
- No cases of high intraocular pressure were detected in either group.
- Lens opacities were identified in five eyes of five patients in the MPH-treated group (p=0.019).
- One patient with the most severe cataract formation had used MPH for 84 months.
Conclusions:
- Prolonged administration of methylphenidate hydrochloride may be associated with the development of lens opacities.
- Children using methylphenidate for more than two years warrant regular ophthalmological examinations to monitor for potential ocular side effects.