Methylphenidate effects on children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: Self-report of symptoms, side-effects, and self-esteem

Abstract

Examined the effects of methylphenidate (MPH) on the self-report ratings of 24 children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Children provided ratings of ADHD symptoms, side-effects, and self-esteem in a double-blind, placebo-controlled evaluation of three MPH doses (.16 mg/kg, .29 mg/kg, .42 mg/kg). Mothers and teachers completed ratings of ADHD symptoms and side-effects. Children reported significant improvements in ADHD symptoms with medication in an analogous fashion to parent and teacher ratings. Regardless of dose, children reported some side-effects to be more severe than did parents or teachers. Children reported marginally significant increases in side-effect severity with MPH vs. placebo whereas teachers reported significant reductions in the severity of side-effects with treatment. The low dose led to significant improvements in children's behavioral self-concept compared to placebo, although most children showed no overall change in self-concept. These results highlight the importance of children's perceptions of MPH treatment for research and clinical purposes.