Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) is a stimulant medication used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and narcolepsy. Some gene variants may influence methylphenidate effects in Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), as in typically developing children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Methylphenidate reduces hyperactive-impulsive symptoms common in children with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs), however, response and tolerability varies widely.1
The autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are a group of neurodevelopmental disorders including autistic disorder, Asperger's disorder and pervasive developmental disorder, not otherwise specified, which share impairment in social communication. Surveys estimate 1 out of 88 to 160 children as having an ASD. Impairment from ASD varies considerably across its core dimensions, but also from associated maladaptive behaviors, such as symptoms resembling attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Moderate-to-severe hyperactive-impulsive behaviors overlap in one-third or more individuals with ASD. These behaviors are often targeted by pharmacologic and other treatment efforts, such as stimulants like methylphenidate.
Related to:
ASD, Methylphenidate, Stimulant, Concerta