Psychostimulants et tics

Abstract

Chronic tics/Tourette syndrome (TS) are among neurodevelopmental disorders including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), learning disabilities, and autism spectrum disorders. Of these, ADHD is by far the most frequently associated, present in > 50% of individuals with TS. Thus, it would seem useful, if ADHD were to be considered sufficiently disabling so as to offer methylphenidate treatment to the patients concerned. Nevertheless, and alas, this is done far too rarely for fear that methylphenidate can increase tic severity. However, even if this possibility exists, it is an exception easy to correct if necessary. Also, the galenic formula of methylphenidate can play a determining role in its tolerance to tics, and several attempts at treatment are sometimes necessary.