Methylphenidate and Desipramine in Hospitalized Children with Comorbid Behavior and Mood Disorders: Separate and Combined Effects on Behavior and Mood

ABSTRACT Desipramine (DMI), methylphenidate (MPH), and combined DMI+MPH were examined to assess their differential efficacy in treating problems of inattention, hyperactivity, oppositional/aggressive symptoms, self-control, and mood in children with comorbid mood and behavior disorders. A double-blind placebo-controlled crossover experimental study was conducted on 16 psychiatrically hospitalized children (ages 7–12) with diagnoses of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, a nonbipolar mood disorder (major depressive disorder or dysthymic disorder), or both. In addition, all children had either conduct disorder or oppositional defiant disorder. Behavior and mood were rated in school weekly, and on the inpatient unit (days and evenings separately). Each of the 16 subjects was observed and interviewed on methylphenidate 20 mg daily, desipramine (adjusted to therapeutic levels), and a combination of these two treatments, and the findings were compared to baseline and placebo. Statistically significant imp...