Methylphenidate in Adults With Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Methylphenidate in Adults With Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Methylphenidate (MPH) is the first-line pharmacological treatment for adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Nevertheless, there is considerable interindividual variability regarding the dose required, tolerability and response rates to MPH. The aim of this study is to address the clinical and genetic predictors of MPH treatment outcomes in ADHD.

Methylphenidate (MPH) is the most prescribed psychostimulant for children and adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Meta-analyses and systematic reviews have shown that MPH is safe and efficacious in attenuating the core symptoms of ADHD, promoting overall clinical improvement. However, many patients still do not show an appropriate clinical response to the MPH treatment and there is considerable interindividual variability regarding the dose required, tolerability and response rates to MPH. Therefore, it is essential to address the clinical and genetic predictors of MPH treatment outcomes in ADHD.

Inclusion Criteria:

• White Brazilian of European descent
• Fulfillment of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, (DSM-IV) diagnostic criteria for ADHD
• Eligibility to immediate-release MPH (IR-MPH) treatment

Exclusion Criteria:

• Contraindication for IR-MPH use
• Current stimulant treatment
• Evidence of a clinically significant neurological disease that might affect cognition (e.g., delirium, dementia, epilepsy, head trauma, and multiple sclerosis)
• Current or past history of psychosis
• Estimated intelligence quotient score lower than 70