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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Aggressive Behaviour In A Child While On Methylphenidate?

My 13 yr old granddaughter has been on Methylphenidate 36 mg tab for over a yr. She had been taking Focalin for approximately 2 yrs. She seems to become very agitated when things do not go her way and growls or makes guttering noises. She used to be very sweet and calm. She has been having home problems, with her mom and stepdad but has been living with me for the past year and a half. There is a lot of discontent going on with her parents and she is exposed to that when they come into town. Is the medicine making her act out or is this just a 13 yr old. I am a 69yr retired high school teacher and I am very baffled.
Mon, 17 Dec 2018
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hi,

Methylphenidate is a stimulant drug that can definitely cause aggressiveness. So yes it may the drug and evaluation is needed.

However, there is a possibility that her symptoms may be secondary to anxiety/depression which is not rare in teenagers.

So I personally understand she should be properly assessed by a psychiatrist for proper management ahead.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Take care

Regards,
Dr Mahboob Ur Rahman , General & Family Physician
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What Causes Aggressive Behaviour In A Child While On Methylphenidate?

Hi, Methylphenidate is a stimulant drug that can definitely cause aggressiveness. So yes it may the drug and evaluation is needed. However, there is a possibility that her symptoms may be secondary to anxiety/depression which is not rare in teenagers. So I personally understand she should be properly assessed by a psychiatrist for proper management ahead. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Take care Regards, Dr Mahboob Ur Rahman , General & Family Physician