Effect of methylphenidate in a child with pica and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder
Abstract Introduction: Pica and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) comorbidity has rarely been described in the literature. It has been suggested that pica and ADHD may share some neurobiological ground and that methylphenidate may be a reasonable treatment option for these patients. Case report: Herein is reported the case of an eight-year-old boy with pica and ADHD who was successfully treated with methylphenidate. Notably, both disorders relapsed when methylphenidate was discontinued, with symptom control regained after its reintroduction. Discussion: ADHD and pica may share features such as poor impulse control and dopaminergic system dysfunction, with several studies suggesting that dopamine may be the implicated neurotransmitter. Conclusion: This case report adds to the existing body of evidence suggesting that methylphenidate is effective in pica and AHDH comorbidity. Nevertheless, there is a need for further research to better understand the effects of methylphenidate on pica.
Main Authors: | , |
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Format: | Digital revista |
Language: | English |
Published: |
Centro Hospitalar do Porto
2023
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Online Access: | http://scielo.pt/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0872-07542023000100031 |
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Summary: | Abstract Introduction: Pica and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) comorbidity has rarely been described in the literature. It has been suggested that pica and ADHD may share some neurobiological ground and that methylphenidate may be a reasonable treatment option for these patients. Case report: Herein is reported the case of an eight-year-old boy with pica and ADHD who was successfully treated with methylphenidate. Notably, both disorders relapsed when methylphenidate was discontinued, with symptom control regained after its reintroduction. Discussion: ADHD and pica may share features such as poor impulse control and dopaminergic system dysfunction, with several studies suggesting that dopamine may be the implicated neurotransmitter. Conclusion: This case report adds to the existing body of evidence suggesting that methylphenidate is effective in pica and AHDH comorbidity. Nevertheless, there is a need for further research to better understand the effects of methylphenidate on pica. |
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