Long‐term Use and Discontinuation of Methylphenidate with Hyperactive Children

Abstract

The long-term effects of methylphenidate on the behavior and academic functioning of hyperactive children are described. Children (36) having a positive response to methylphenidate entered a 3-yr follow-up study in which they were closely monitored physically, behaviorally and psychometrically. During this period 13 children spontaneously discontinued medication: there were no statistically significant differences between them and the children who continued medication in terms of age, IQ or ratings at initial interview. The greatest improvement in performance occurred in the early months of treatment, but was only partially maintained during long-term therapy and little change occurred after medication was discontinued. Sustained improvement is related to factors other than continued medication, and drug therapy may be regarded as a short-term intervention until more positive social and school behavior can be established.