A neuropathic substrate for stimulant drug effects in hyperactive children

Behavioral, physiological, and cognitive data are presented from a sample of 55 hyperactive children undergoing methylphenidate treatment. Consistent with previous research, considerable variability exists on these measures in this clinical population with little evidence for a consistent profile on any of these dimensions. A theoretical discussion is offered reflecting these findings with reference to a proposed pathophysiologic basis for the disorder. The proposed model postulates a particular emphasis on the functional responsibilities of the frontal-striatal system. A neural substrate for the abnormal oscillations that characterize hyperactive children, the correction of which is germane to therapeutic stimulant effects, is presented in terms of the regulatory functions of the frontal lobe.