Methylphenidate influences emotion processing in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: a review

Abstract

Anecdotic evidence indicates parents often hesitate about treating their child with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) with methylphenidate, sometimes partially based on their ideas about the negative influence of methylphenidate on emotion processing. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether the current scientific knowledge about the influence of methylphenidate on emotion processing in ADHD supports the negative image of methylphenidate in societal debate. An overview of the existing literature on emotion processing, ADHD and methylphenidate is presented. The results demonstrate that overall methylphenidate has a normalizing effect on emotional processing in ADHD, probably by regulating dopaminergic and noradrenergic neurotransmission, on a behavioural and physiological level and on brain activity. Findings seem to be independent of age, emotional valence or chronic versus acute treatment.