Safety Issues in the Use of Methylphenidate

Summary Methylphenidate is the most widely used psychotropic medication in children in the US. It is both well tolerated and efficacious in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and is associated with few serious adverse effects. However, the abuse of methylphenidate for the purpose of experiencing a ‘high’ is hazardous. The use of methylphenidate in combination with other medications increases the risk of adverse effects and drug interactions. Good communication between the physician, patient and family, together with monitoring, increases the likelihood that methylphenidate therapy will be effective and have no adverse consequences.