Methylphenidate and the risk of psychosis in adolescents and young adults: a population-based cohort study

Original research
by
Hollis, Chris et al

Release Date

2019

Geography

Sweden

Language of Resource

English

Full Text Available

Yes

Open Access / OK to Reproduce

Yes

Peer Reviewed

Yes

Objective

We aimed to determine whether the risk of psychotic events increases immediately after initiation of methylphenidate treatment or, in the longer term, 1 year after treatment initiation in adolescents and young adults with and without a previously diagnosed psychotic disorder.

Findings/Key points

Contrary to clinical concerns, we found no evidence that initiation of methylphenidate treatment increases the risk of psychotic events in adolescents and young adults, including in those individuals with a history of psychosis. Our study should reassure clinicians considering initiating methylphenidate treatment for ADHD in adolescents and young adults, and it challenges the widely held view in clinical practice that methylphenidate should be avoided, or its use restricted, in individuals with a history of psychosis.

Design/methods

Cohort study

Keywords

Stimulants
Youth
Mental health
Transitions in care/treatment
About prescribers
Outcomes