Stimulant medications

Objective: To review the short- and long-term safety and efficacy of stimul ants for the treatment of children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity dis order (ADHD). Method: A Medline search was conducted for both randomized co ntrolled trials and reviews to determine the efficacy and safety of stimula nt drugs for treating children with ADHD. Information was obtained on adver se events associated with their use, including their impact on height and w eight gain during childhood. Animal data were reviewed for information on t olerance, sensitization, and the impact of high-dose stimulant effects on n eurons and on the development of hepatic tumors. Human data on dopamine tra nsporter occupancy by stimulants were also included. Results: Stimulant tre atment studies show robust short-term efficacy and a good safety profile. L ongerterm studies are few in number but have produced no conclusive evidenc e that careful therapeutic use of these medications is harmful. Conclusion: Current evidence indicates that stimulants show efficacy and safety in stu dies lasting up to 24 months.