Deleterious Effects of Drugs Used for Hyperactivity on Patients with Gilles de la Tourette Syndrome

Two pediatricians failed to recognize Gilles de la Tourette syndrome in a child. The symptoms were exacerbated after the child took both pemoline and methylphenidate. All medications commonly used to treat hyperactivity may cause such exacerbation. Gilles de la Tourette syndrome is frequently associated with symptoms characteristic of hyperactivity and often goes unrecognized for long periods of time. The symptoms of the syndrome and the evidence that they are exacerbated by medication used to hyperactivity are briefly reviewed. Physicians should be aware of the possibility of Gilles de la Tourette syndrome in any hyperactive patient who manifests or has a history of a tic.