Concerta and Oral Movement Disorders

Mechanism and Presentation

Methylphenidate can cause involuntary motor tics involving the face, tongue, and oral muscles, which may manifest as tongue movements and clicking sounds, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics 1

Acute dystonias are characterized by involuntary motor tics or spasms involving the face and oral structures, and may occur after the first few doses or following dose increases, as reported in Pediatrics 1
Tic disorders can manifest as simple or complex motor tics affecting the mouth and tongue, and may present as repetitive tongue movements, lip smacking, or clicking sounds, according to the American College of Chest Physicians 2

Most medication-induced movement disorders are reversible with discontinuation of the medication, as noted in Pediatrics 1
For patients who require continued treatment with methylphenidate despite mild tics, the benefits of treating ADHD symptoms may outweigh the risks, according to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry 3
Differential diagnosis should rule out other causes of abnormal movements, such as seizure disorders, before attributing symptoms to medication, as recommended by the American College of Chest Physicians 2