Methylphenidate Abuse and Psychiatric Side Effects

Overview

Journal Prim Care Companion J Clin Psychiatry

Specialty Psychiatry

Date 2004 Mar 12

PMID 15014637

Citations 60

Authors

W Alexander Morton

Gwendolyn G. Stockton

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Methylphenidate is a central nervous system stimulant drug that has become the primary drug of choice in treating attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in children. Side effects are usually mild and are generally well tolerated by patients. Along with increases in prescribing frequency, the potential for abuse has increased. Intranasal abuse produces effects rapidly that are similar to the effects of cocaine in both onset and type. The clinical picture of stimulant abuse produces a wide array of psychiatric symptoms. There is little in the literature to differentiate methylphenidate from other stimulants when they are abused. The need for education of all involved with the use of methylphenidate is discussed to help prevent an increasing pattern of methylphenidate abuse.

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