Comparison between lisdexamfetamine and methylphenidate in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.55892/jrg.v9i20.3273Keywords:
ADHD, Lisdexamfetamine, Methylphenidate, Pharmacological Treatment, ChildrenAbstract
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a prevalent neuropsychiatric condition in childhood, significantly affecting academic, social, and behavioral development. Psychostimulants, particularly methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine, are widely used in its pharmacological treatment. However, there is no clear consensus regarding the therapeutic superiority between these drugs. This study aimed to compare the clinical efficacy, safety, tolerability, and functional impact of lisdexamfetamine and methylphenidate in children with ADHD. An integrative literature review was conducted based on Whittemore and Knafl’s framework, including studies published between 2016 and 2025 in PubMed and ScienceDirect databases. Randomized clinical trials, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and observational studies were analyzed. The findings indicate that both medications are effective in reducing core ADHD symptoms, with similar safety profiles and predominantly mild to moderate adverse effects. Although some evidence suggests a greater effect size for lisdexamfetamine, this superiority is not consistent across studies and appears to be influenced by methodological factors. Methylphenidate showed, in some cases, better tolerability, while lisdexamfetamine may favor adherence due to its prolonged-release profile. Overall, no robust evidence supports the superiority of one drug over the other, reinforcing the need for individualized treatment approaches and further long-term studies.
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References
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