Psychosis during Attention Deficit–Hyperactivity Disorder Treatment with Stimulants

Attention deficit–hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most commonly diagnosed conditions in child and adolescent mental health services. Stimulants, including methylphenidate and amphetamines, are recommended for ADHD treatment.1 Methylphenidate is the most frequently prescribed stimulant in many countries; however, data from private insurance claims show that amphetamines are more commonly prescribed in the United States.2 Despite meta-analyses that show the efficacy of stimulants in reducing ADHD symptoms,3 at least in the short term, the quality of evidence and the safety of these medications continue to be debated. In particular, psychosis can occur during stimulant treatment and can be traumatic . . .