Publications [#271082] of Melanie J. Bonner

Journal Articles

1. Conklin, HM; Helton, S; Ashford, J; Mulhern, RK; Reddick, WE; Brown, R; Bonner, M; Jasper, BW; Wu, S; Xiong, X; Khan, RB (2010). Predicting methylphenidate response in long-term survivors of childhood cancer: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial.. J Pediatr Psychol, 35(2), 144-155. [doi]
   (last updated on 2025/05/31)

   Abstract:
   OBJECTIVE: To investigate the methylphenidate (MPH) response rate among childhood survivors of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and brain tumors (BTs) and to identify predictors of positive MPH response. METHODS: Cancer survivors (N = 106; BT = 51 and ALL = 55) identified as having attention deficits and learning problems participated in a 3-week, double-blind, crossover trial consisting of placebo, low-dose MPH (0.3 mg/kg), and moderate-dose MPH (0.6 mg/kg). Weekly teacher and parent reports on the Conners' Rating Scales were gathered. RESULTS: Following moderate MPH dose, 45.28% of the sample was classified as responders. Findings revealed that more problems endorsed prior to the medication trial on parent and teacher ratings were predictive of positive medication response (p < .05). CONCLUSIONS: MPH significantly reduces attention problems in a subset of childhood cancer survivors. Parent and teacher ratings may assist in identifying children most likely to respond to MPH so prescribing may be optimally targeted.