Use of Stimulants in Patients with Psychosis Having Past History of or Co-occurring Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: Is it Safe?

Abstract

Sir, Since ages, psychiatrists have cautioned against the use of stimulants in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) when a patient has a psychotic episode. Amphetamine and its analogues are considered the mainstay of treatment for ADHD, and most patients are put on a long-term regimen with these psychostimulants. Some children treated with amphetamines have reported psychosis as an adverse effect. At the same time, a combination of antipsychotics and psychostimulants was found safer and effective in a few patients with schizophrenia, which further raises confusion regarding modes of treatment for comorbid ADHD and psychotic disorder.