Introduction:

Even though in Spain methylphenidate is approved for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children older than 6 years, there are prescriptions in adult patients both for the treatment of ADHD and in other indications. The objective of this study is to analyse the adequacy of the prescription of methylphenidate in adult patients in the South of Seville Healthcare Management Area (SSHMA).

Methodology:

Retrospective observational prescription-indication study of the use of methylphenidate of all adult patients (>18 years) who had active methylphenidate prescriptions in September 2018.

Results:

We included 91 adult patients on treatment with methylphenidate with a mean age of 21 years (range 18-90 years). 67.03% were men. The diagnosis that most frequently motivated the prescription of methylphenidate was ADHD, which is the indication for which it is authorized. 36.26% of the patients presented indications not included in the technical data sheet. The mean daily dose prescribed was 36 mg (range 5-108 mg). 7 patients had prescribed doses higher than the maximum recommended.

Conclusions:

This study demonstrates different prescription patterns of methylphenidate in adults. Draws attention, the duration of treatment and non-suspension during adulthood. In addition, it is observed that the use of methylphenidate outside indications of technical data sheet is a common practice in adults.

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