Rozans, M., Dreisbach, A., Lertora, J.J., & Kahn, M.J. (2002). Palliative uses of methylphenidate in patients with cancer: A review. Journal of Clinical Oncology, 20, 335–339.

DATABASES USED: MEDLINE

COMMENTS ON LITERATURE USED: Articles published from 1966–2000 related to methylphenidate use in patients with cancer or in palliative care

FINAL NUMBER STUDIES USED = 49 

The evidence in the review found that methylphenidate is useful for the treatment of depression in a variety of malignancies, with more than 80% improvement in depression and side effects in less than 20%.