Methylphenidate transdermal system in adult ADHD and impact on emotional and oppositional symptoms.

Abstract

OBJECTIVE:

This trial evaluated the effect of methylphenidate transdermal system (MTS) on the full spectrum of adult symptoms (attention-disorganization, hyperactivity-impulsivity, emotional dysregulation [ED], and oppositional-defiant disorder [ODD]) found in this disorder.

METHOD:

This placebo-controlled, double-blind, flexible-dose, crossover trial employed the Wender-Reimherr Adult Attention Deficit Disorder Scale (WRAADDS) and Connor's Adult ADHD Rating Scale (CAARS) and two measures of adult ODD. Treatment responses of all participants and four subgroups (ADHDalone, ADHD + ED, ADHD + ODD, and ADHD + ED + ODD) were assessed.

RESULTS:

Around 23% of baseline participants were ADHD alone, 31% were ADHD + ED, 10% were ADHD + ODD, and 36% were ADHD + ED + ODD. There was a significant treatment effect for all symptom areas and all four subgroups. MTS was associated with significantly more adverse events, especially dermatologic side effects.

CONCLUSIONS:

MTS was effective in treating adult ADHD. This clinical trial included numerous participants meeting criteria for ED and ODD. All ADHD symptoms responded positively to treatment with MTS.

• Authors: Barrie K Marchant, Frederick W Reimherr, Reid J Robison, John L Olsen, Douglas G Kondo
• Journal: Journal of attention disorders (J Atten Disord) Vol. 15 Issue 4 Pg. 295-304 (May 2011) ISSN: 1557-1246 [Electronic] United States
• PMID: 20410322 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Randomized Controlled Trial, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't)

Chemical References

• Methylphenidate

Topics

• Administration, Cutaneous
• Adult
• Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity (drug therapy, psychology)
• Attention Deficit and Disruptive Behavior Disorders (drug therapy, psychology)
• Cross-Over Studies
• Double-Blind Method
• Emotions (drug effects)
• Female
• Humans
• Male
• Methylphenidate (administration & dosage, therapeutic use)
• Treatment Outcome