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How well do stimulant drugs work for treating children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder?

The effectiveness of stimulants may vary depending on the age of the child. Research shows that methylphenidate improves behavior in 30 to 70 percent of children. Treatment improved attention and interactions with mothers and other children.

Studies of children ages five to twelve showed that about 70 percent have some benefit from stimulant therapy. These children had improved concentration, school performance, self-esteem, and relationships with family members. Methylphenidate, amphetamine salts, and dextroamphetamine work equally well, although methylphenidate may be slightly more effective for school-aged children who have anxiety with ADHD.

Benefits of stimulants usually appear within the first week of treatment. Children who don’t respond to one drug may have more success with a different one. In some cases, a combination of medicines works best.

Sources:
The Merck Manual of Medical Information: Home Edition. Merck & Co., 1997.
American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Children with Disabilities and Committee on Drugs. "Medication For Children With Attentional Disorders," Pediatrics 98 (1996).
Spencer, T. "Pharmacotherapy Of Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Across The Life-Cycle," The Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry 35 (1996).
Efron, D. "Methylphenidate Versus Dextroamphetamine In Children With Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: A Double-Blind Crossover Trial," Pediatrics 100 (1997).
Concerta Product Information, Alza Corporation, July 2007.
Diseases and Conditions, “Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder/ADHD.” http://www.mayoclinic.com. Mayo Clinic Health. Last accessed 1/10/2007.

This answer prepared 8/7/2000.
This information updated 1/10/2007.

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