A recent comprehensive study delved into the long-term effects of methylphenidate (MPH) treatment on sleep among individuals with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) through a 2-year naturalistic prospective pharmacovigilance multicenter investigation. In total, 1,410 participants were divided into three distinct groups: those intending to commence MPH treatment (MPH-group), those abstaining from ADHD-medication (no-MPH-group), and a control group devoid of ADHD. Assessments of sleep problems were executed utilizing the Children’s Sleep Habits Questionnaire (CSHQ).

The study unveiled clinically significant baseline mean CSHQ-total-sleep-scores in both the MPH-group and the no-MPH-group, underscoring the prevalence of sleep disturbances among individuals with ADHD. Conversely, the control group's baseline scores did not reach clinical significance. Over the 24-month observational period, only the control group showed a noteworthy escalation in any aspect of sleep. Upon comparing the MPH-group with the no-MPH-group, no discernible differences in total sleep score alterations were discerned.

In summary, notwithstanding the common occurrence of sleep issues in individuals with ADHD, this investigation did not unearth substantial adverse long-term impacts of MPH treatment on sleep patterns. These findings offer invaluable insights to healthcare professionals specializing in neuroscience and psychiatry, hinting that MPH treatment for ADHD may not exacerbate sleep problems over extended durations.

Reference:

Häge A et al. Journal of Attention Disorders 2024;28(5):699-707. Abstract