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Pemoline effects on children with ADHD: a time-response by dose-response analysis on classroom measures
W E Pelham1, J M Swanson, M B Furman
1University of Pittsburgh, USA.
Objective:
To evaluate the dose-response by time-response characteristics of pemoline (Cylert) on dependent measures of behavior and academic performance in a laboratory classroom.
Method:
After a 2-week baseline, a double-blind crossover design was used to compare placebo, 18.75 mg, 37.5 mg, 75 mg, and 112.5 mg of pemoline, q.a.m., with each dose administered for 1 week. Medication was given at 9:00 A.M., and performance was measured beginning immediately and beginning 2, 4, and 6 hours after ingestion. The dependent measures included number of math problems completed correctly, teacher-recorded rates of on-task behavior and noncompliance, and teacher ratings on an Abbreviated Conners Teacher Rating Scale.
Results:
There were linear effects of medication, with pemoline doses greater than 18.75 mg having an effect beginning 2 hours after ingestion and lasting through the seventh hour after ingestion.
Conclusions:
Results are contrasted with widespread misbeliefs regarding pemoline's time course and efficacy.