Review Question - QID 105691

This patient is being treated with methylphenidate (Ritalin) for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. This drug may also be used to treat narcolepsy.

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a childhood-onset disorder marked by a limited attention span and poor impulse control. Children are hyperactive and may also have emotional instability and motor impairment. This disorder may cause significant problems in school. Treatment centers around methylphenidate (Ritalin), amphetamines (Dexedrine), or atomoxetine (an SNRI). Stimulants used in treatment of ADHD may also be used for appetite control as well as treatment of narcolepsy.

Rader et al. discuss strategies in diagnosis and treatment of childhood ADHD. Symptoms of childhood attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder affect cognitive, academic, behavioral, emotional, social, and developmental functioning. Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder is the most commonly diagnosed neurodevelopmental disorder in children and adolescents.

Santamaria-Cano describes the diagnosis and treatment of narcolepsy. Narcolepsy is a sleep disorder characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness, cataplexy, and other abnormal manifestations of REM sleep. Classic compounds used to treat narcolepsy include methylphenidate, clomipramine and newer agents such as modafinil, venlafaxine and sodium oxybate.

Illustration A shows a table of common side effects of methylphenidate.

Answer 1: Schizophrenia is not treated with amphetamines. It is commonly treated with typical and atypical antipsychotics.
Answer 2: Tourette's syndrome is often treated with typical or antipyschotics.
Answer 3: The manic phase of bipolar disease could be worsened with an amphetamine. A first line treatment for bipolar disease is lithium.
Answer 4: Anorexia could be worsened by amphetamines since these drugs suppress appetite and may actually be used for appetite control.