| Summary: | Introduction: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is generally treated with short-acting methylphenidate, but recently a long-acting presentation has been introduced, hence the interest of the study to evaluate the two formulations. Purpse: To identify, synthesize and evaluate the best available evidence on the effectiveness and safety of long-acting methylphenidate versus short-acting treatment for ADHD in the 6-19 year-old population. Methods: A systematic review of intervention studies comparing the two presentations of methylphenidate was conducted. Effectiveness was measured in terms of educational performance, psychosocial functioning, quality of life and adverse effects. Databases were searched until February 2012 in English and Spanish: PubMed/MEDLINE, Lilacs, Cochrane, DARE and National Guideline Clearinghouse. The studies were evaluated by two investigators independently. Results: Of the 18 studies found initially, six were included, among which a systematic review, a primary article on therapeutic interventions and four clinical guidelines. Conclusions: Long-acting methylphenidate is not superior to short-acting methylphenidate in terms of educational performance, psychosocial functioning, quality of life. Few adverse effects were found in the treatment of patients between 6 and 19 years old with attention deficit disorder.
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