The Effects of Caffeine and Methylphenidate on Hyperactive Children by Philip Firestone, Ph.D., Jean Davey, M.D., John T. Goodman, Ph.D., and Susan Peters, B.A

Abstract

Twenty-one hyperactive children received in turn 500 mg. caffeine, 300 mg. caffeine, and 20 mg. methylphenidate per day in a double-blind crossover design investigation. Each drug was given for three weeks. Methylphenidate resulted in significantly improved behavior in the children as rated by mothers and teachers, and on tests of impulsivity and motor control. There were no significant improvements in either of the caffeine conditions, although some children showed some slight improvements with caffeine. The negative side effects with both caffeine and methyiphenidate were minimal.