Research project
Subjective experiences of methylphenidate in youth
The aim of this study is to identify the side effects during treatment with methylphenidate and to investigate how children experience the use of the medication (such as Ritalin, Concerta and Medikinet).
- Duration
- 2023 - 2028
- Contact
- Jacqueline Guicherit-Dicke
Scientific Background
Methylphenidate is the most commonly used medication for children and young adults with AD(H)D in many countries. Research has shown that children can experience side effects from using methylphenidate. This occurs more often than we think. With this study, we want to gain more insight into the side effects and personal experiences of children who use methylphenidate (such as Ritalin, Concerta or Medikinet). Our goal is to give children a voice: how do they feel during treatment, and what do they think of their medication? Because little research has been done on these subjective experiences, we hope that this project will add an important piece of knowledge to the understanding of medication use in children with AD(H)D.
Research design
The research consists of a questionnaire and takes approximately 15-20 minutes to complete. Children can fill in this questionnaire together with their parent/carer. The questionnaire asks about specific side effects since the start of treatment with methylphenidate and about thoughts and feelings about taking the medication. We are particularly interested in gaining more insight into the child's own experience.