Methylphenidate in terminal depression

J Pain Symptom Manage. 1998 Sep;16(3):193-8. doi: 10.1016/s0885-3924(98)00071-2.

Abstract

Major depressive disorder in 26 hospice inpatients was managed with a trial of methylphenidate (mean daily dosage, 17.7 mg). A therapeutic response was achieved in 46% of the sample. However, a significant response was obtained in only 7% of those patients who subsequently died of their terminal illness within 6 weeks. Higher dosage psychostimulants may be indicated in the last weeks of life of the terminally ill. Alternatively "vital exhaustion" may account for the poor response rate in the treatment of depression in patients with advanced malignancy.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Central Nervous System Stimulants / adverse effects
  • Central Nervous System Stimulants / therapeutic use*
  • Depressive Disorder / drug therapy*
  • Depressive Disorder / psychology
  • Female
  • Hospice Care
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Methylphenidate / adverse effects
  • Methylphenidate / therapeutic use*
  • Middle Aged
  • Neoplasms / psychology

Substances

  • Central Nervous System Stimulants
  • Methylphenidate