What is the evidence for using CNS stimulants to treat ADHD in children?
Click here to download a printable version of this Therapeutics Letter in Adobe Acrobat PDF format (202 KB). Exposing children to medication for an extended period of time is concerning for parents and clinicians. A recent review of British Columbia’s Pharmanet data revealed that methylphenidate (Ritalin®, Ritalin SR®, Biphentin®, Concerta®) is the most common long-term (> 2 years) medication to which BC children are exposed. Methylphenidate is classified as a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant. Other CNS stimulants include: dextroamphetamine (d-amphetamine) [Dexedrine®, Dexedrine SR®] and mixed amphetamine salts (d-amphetamine and l-amphetamine) [Adderall XR®]. These medications are most commonly prescribed for children with a spectrum of attention and behaviour problems, currently designated Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It is beyond the scope of this letter to review this complex and controversial disorder and all its treatments. This Letter summarizes and cri
