MHRA issues advice on ADHD drug.

Updated guidelines on the safe use of methylphenidate in children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have been issued by the MHRA.

The guidelines state that methylphenidate is safe for children over the age of six, but that health professionals should monitor patients for cardiovascular and psychiatric problems before and during treatment.

Monitoring should include assessment of BP, height and weight, pulse and symptoms suggestive of heart failure, which should prompt specialist cardiac evaluation.

Patients should be watched for changes in appetite and onset or worsening of psychiatric symptoms, the MHRA said.