An analysis published in the Pediatrics (February 2009; Vol. 123, No. 2:611–616) examined psychiatric adverse events reported in clinical trials of medications used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The review included data from 49 randomized clinical studies involving stimulant and non-stimulant ADHD medications.
Across the pooled studies, symptoms consistent with psychosis or mania—including hallucinations—were reported in a small number of participants. Specifically, 11 out of 743 children (approximately 1.5%) receiving ADHD medications experienced such symptoms. No comparable psychiatric symptoms were reported among participants receiving placebo.
The hallucinations described in some cases involved vivid visual experiences, such as the perception of insects or animals. Although these events were uncommon, the authors noted that the symptoms could be severe or distressing when they occurred and emphasized the importance of clinical awareness of this potential adverse effect.
