ALPHA PSYCHIATRY
Original Articles

Methylphenidate-induced visual hallucinations in a child with autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder : A case report

1.

Suleyman Demirel Universitesi Tip Fakultesi Cocuk-Ergen Ruh Sagligi ve Hastaliklari Anabilim Dali

2.

Suleyman Demirel Universitesi Tip Fakultesi Cocuk-Ergen Ruh Sagligi ve Hastaliklari Anabilim Dali

Alpha Psychiatry 2017; 18: Supplement 53-55
DOI: 10.5455/apd.239106
Read: 928 Downloads: 440 Published: 01 February 2017

Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often exhibit the symptoms of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Methylphenidate (MPH) is commonly used for ADHD symptoms in children with ASD. However, these children are reported to be more sensitive to side effects of MPH. The most common side effects of MPH are insomnia, decreased appetite, nausea, vomiting, headache, and abdominal pain. Visual hallucinations are rarely seen during MPH treatment. In this paper, we report a 10-year-old male patient with ASD who presented with visual hallucinations during treatment with immediate-release MPH. MPH can cause psychotic symptoms especially in the presence of comorbid ASD and ADHD. Clinicians should be aware of this rare side effect in such comorbid cases. [Anadolu Psikiyatri Derg 2017; 18(0.100): 53-55]

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