A Case Report of Orofacial Dyskinesia With Transdermal Methylphenidate

Methylphenidate transdermal systems are a generally safe and effective treatment option for individuals with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

A 9-year-old boy with a history of autism spectrum disorder, insomnia, ADHD combined type, and historical global developmental delays with high suspicion for intellectual disability presented to a developmental and behavioral pediatrics clinic for medication management related to his diagnosis of ADHD. Other pertinent medical history includes a history of pica, a branchial cleft cyst that has since been removed, intermittent constipation and early childhood trauma, resulting in permanent placement with his maternal grandparents. His birth history is notable for a presumed history of in utero exposure to marijuana. He has a family history of substance use disorder, depression, autism and ADHD. A chromosomal microarray and testing for Fragile X were completed in the past and unremarkable. Shortly after a first-time application of a starting dose methylphenidate transdermal system, he was noted to demonstrate involuntary lip puckering, tongue thrusting, and repetitive jaw opening and closing. Upon immediate discontinuation of the patch, the dyskinesia subsided with no persistent remaining symptoms.

To inform medication management for ADHD in children with comorbidities, it is valuable to define specific risk factors for adverse effects and intolerability of medication. Identifying if patient age, weight, comorbidities, previous antipsychotic or stimulant use, and concurrent medication use are demonstrable risk factors for dyskinesia can help practitioners develop a more individualized medication treatment plan for children with ADHD.