Methylphenidate in Tardive Dyskinesia

Methylphenidate, an amphetamine-like central nervous system (CNS) stimulant used successfully in reversing acute neuroleptic-induced neurological symptoms, was given in a placebo-controlled study to 17 patients with tardive dyskinesia. On global ratings three subjects were improved, six showed an increase in symptoms, and eight showed no changes. The authors conclude that methylphenidate is not effective in tardive dyskinesia and that the results of this study are in keeping with present knowledge about CNS pharmacology.