Methylphenidate Misuse in Substance Abusing Adolescents

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study determined the change in prevalence of methylphenidate misuse over the last four years in adolescents assessed at an outpatient substance abuse treatment facility. A review of 240 charts randomly selected from 1,183 patient records of assessments during 1992–1996 was done. Chi square and logistic regression were used in analysis. The sample was 74% male; 63% white, 36% African American; 11–20 years of age (mean 15.6 years). Five percent of the sample was assessed in 1992, 19% in 1993, 28% in 1994, 26% in 1995, and 22% in 1996. There was a significant increase in methylphenidate misuse over the last 2.5 years (2% 1992–1993, 12% 1994–1996) (p = 0.02). This increase was greatest in white adolescents (3% in 1992–1993, 20% in 1994–1996) (p = 0.009). There was no significant gender difference in methylphenidate misuse or association with a specific drug of choice. Misuse of other prescription or over-the-counter medications did not change. There has been a significant increase in methylphenidate misuse, especially in white adolescents. Treatment with methylphenidate in adolescents at risk of substance misuse should be considered carefully.