Methylphenidate for attention problems in epilepsy patients: Safety and efficacy
Beth A Leeman-Markowski1, Jesse Adams2, Samantha P Martin1
1Research Service, VA New York Harbor Healthcare System, 423 E. 23rd St., New York, NY 10010, United States; Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, Department of Neurology, New York University Langone Health, 223 E. 34th St., New York, NY 10016, United States.
Epilepsy & Behavior : E&B
|December 28, 2020
Summary
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and epilepsy often co-occur. Methylphenidate (MPH) shows promise for treating epilepsy-related attention deficits in adults, but more research is needed.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neuroscience
- Clinical Pharmacology
Background:
- Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and epilepsy share a bidirectional relationship, with increased prevalence in both conditions.
- Adults with epilepsy frequently experience attentional dysfunction due to seizures, medications, and comorbidities.
- No FDA-approved treatments currently exist for epilepsy-related attentional deficits.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the safety and efficacy of methylphenidate (MPH) for treating attention deficits in adults with epilepsy.
- To review existing evidence on MPH use in pediatric and adult epilepsy populations.
Main Methods:
- Review of large database and registry studies on MPH safety in children with ADHD and epilepsy.
- Analysis of small, single-dose, and open-label studies assessing MPH efficacy in adults with epilepsy-related attention deficits.
Main Results:
- Large studies indicate MPH is safe for children with ADHD and epilepsy, with no impact on seizure frequency.
- Preliminary studies suggest MPH may be effective for attention deficits in adults with epilepsy.
Conclusions:
- Methylphenidate (MPH) is a potential treatment option for epilepsy-related attentional dysfunction.
- Further large-scale, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blinded trials are necessary to confirm MPH efficacy and safety in adults with epilepsy.
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