Pemoline is recognized as an efficacious and safe therapeutic agent for children suffering from
Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD). A review of adverse experience reports submitted to the manufacturer suggests that
Cylert (brand of
pemoline) has a limited potential for abuse or dependence.
Drug dependence studies in animals have demonstrated that
pemoline is not self-administered in naive nor
cocaine-dependent animals. Human experience indicates that, despite the fact that the
drug has been available in the U.S. since 1975, use is limited and is increasing slowly. A review of the literature revealed no published case reports of euphoria, abuse, dependence or withdrawal. While there have been a few reports of tolerance, it is possible that these were a reflection of inadequate dosing rather than actual tolerance to the
drug's
therapeutic effects. During the 10 years that
Cylert has been available in the United States, there have been only four reports of withdrawal reactions and no reported cases of dependence. Reports of intentional overdose of
Cylert are minimal, with no reports involving abuse via the intravenous route.