Pediatric Methylphenidate Exposures: 7-Year Experience of Poison Centers in the United States

This study was undertaken to evaluate trends and toxicity of pediatric methylphenidate exposures; 1993 to 1999 national poison data were analyzed. The majority of children during the entire study period experienced no effect or minor effects with no fatalities. Most common reasons were unintentional general or therapeutic errors in children under 13 years and suicide attempt in adolescents. Adolescents were more likely to experience clinical toxicity, hospitalizations and more serious outcomes. Findings are discussed. (17 refs)