The Use of Methylphenidate in the Treatment of ADHD: What is the Mechanism for Treating Working Memory Deficits?

Methylphenidate (MP), a drug which blocks dopamine reuptake, is most commonly used to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), a disorder associated with a disrupted dopamine system in the brain. Though generally effective at treating common ADHD symptomology (e.g. hyperactivity and impulsivity), MP is less effective at treating working memory deficits, which are also associated with ADHD. Within working memory, MP is more effective at treating deficits in the visuospatial component than it is in treating deficits in the audio-verbal component. This review aims to draw attention to the need for further research on the mechanisms through which MP alleviates working memory deficits. Determining these mechanisms may allow researchers to start developing ways to increase the efficacy of this drug at treating problems with auditory-verbal working memory.