Neurocognitive effects of switching from methylphenidate-IR to OROS-methylphenidate in children with ADHD

Hum Psychopharmacol. 2009 Mar;24(2):95-102. doi: 10.1002/hup.1010.

Abstract

Objectives: This study evaluated neurocognitive changes after switching from immediate release forms of methylphenidate (MPH-IR) to osmotic release oral system methylphenidate (OROS-MPH).

Methods: 102 children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) participated in an open label, 28 day trial, performing neurocognitive test at baseline and at 28 days after the switch from MPH-IR to OROS-MPH.

Results: There were significant improvements in the commission error and the reaction time of both visual and auditory continuous performance tests (CPTs) at 28 days after switching from MPH-IR to OROS-MPH. A positive correlation was observed between the improvement in parent/caregiver-rated IOWA Conners total score (Delta IOWA) and the reduction in commission error (r = 0.3, p = 0.001) and reduction in reaction time variability (r = 0.3, p = 0.006) of visual CPT. In a linear regression model, the change in parent/caregiver-rated IOWA Conners scale total scores were significant predictors of change in commission error (beta = 0.3, p = 0.005, CI = 0.4-2.3, adjusted R(2) = 0.12) and RT variability (beta = 0.3, p = 0.004, CI = 0.5-2.4, adjusted R(2) = 0.09) of visual CPT.

Conclusions: These data suggest that MPH-IR may be successfully switched to OROS-MPH treatment with associated improvements in neurocognitive performance. Large-scale controlled trials are needed to replicate these findings.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Oral
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / drug therapy*
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / physiopathology
  • Central Nervous System Stimulants / administration & dosage*
  • Child
  • Cognition Disorders / drug therapy*
  • Cognition Disorders / etiology
  • Delayed-Action Preparations
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Linear Models
  • Male
  • Methylphenidate / administration & dosage*
  • Neuropsychological Tests
  • Reaction Time / drug effects

Substances

  • Central Nervous System Stimulants
  • Delayed-Action Preparations
  • Methylphenidate