ABSTRACT
The psychostimulants primarily methylphenidate (Ritalin), dextroamphetamine sulfate (Dexedrine), and magnesium pemoline (Cylert) are the most commonly prescribed medications in all of child psychiatry. An estimated 2% of school-age children receive stimulant medication for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms.1 These medications, which have a remarkably benign side-effect profile, have demonstrated efficacy in the treatment of disorders such as ADHD, a disorder with marked functional impairment and long-term morbidity for the child and family. There is no evidence that the use of prescribed stimulant medication results in the increased use or abuse of, or dependence on and addiction to the stimulants themselves. When used effectively, the stimulants are beneficial, safe, and cost-effective in decreasing hyperactivity, distractibility, impulsivity, and fidgetiness, and in increasing attention span. State-dependent learning is not a problem when stimulants are used. Cognitive sequelae of ADHD may respond optimally to more modest doses of these medications, while behavioral symptoms may require larger doses. 2
Chemical Properties For the chemical properties of the psychostimulants, see Table 3.1.
