The normalizing effects of methylphenidate on the classroom behavior of ADDH children.

This study examined whether methylphenidate normalizes the behavior of hyperactive children (ADDH). Twenty-eight ADDH children were treated for 8 weeks with a mean dose of 41.5 mg/d of methylphenidate. Their classroom behavior and that of normal children was recorded by observers who were blind to diagnosis and treatment. Before treatment, all measures significantly differentiated the ADDH and normal children. After treatment, the two groups were indistinguishable on measures of gross and minor motor movement, noncompliance, interference, and overall hyperactivity. ADDH children were significantly improved on measures of attention but continued to be significantly less attentive. In many ways, the ADDH children were not only improved but indistinguishable from their normal peers.