The effect of methylphenidate for giggle incontinence in children

Abstract

AbstractIntroductionGiggle incontinence (GI) is a rare form of urinary incontinence that occurs during or immediately after laughing due to involuntary and complete bladder emptying. Few studies in the literature report that methylphenidate can be effective in treatment of this condition.ObjectiveThe aim of this study is to characterize children with GI and evaluate their response to methylphenidate, as well as describe treatment duration, dosage of methylphenidate, relapse rates after discontinuation of medication, and side effects.MethodsMedical records and 48‐h frequency‐volume charts from children treated with methylphenidate for GI in the period January 2011–July 2021 were retrospectively analyzed.ResultsEighteen children were diagnosed with GI and fulfilled inclusion criteria. Fifteen patients were included in analysis, as 3 out of 18 children decided not to take the methylphenidate that was prescribed. In total, 14 out of the 15 GI patients treated with methylphenidate experienced clinical effect. All patients included in the study had methylphenidate prescribed in a dose range of 5–20 mg daily. Treatment duration ranged from 30 to 1001 days, with a median of 152 days (IQR 114, 243.5). Ten children experienced complete response and two of those reported symptom relapse after discontinuation of the methylphenidate. Only mild and short‐lasting side effects were reported by two patients.DiscussionOur study demonstrates that methylphenidate is an effective treatment in children diagnosed with GI. Side effects are mild and uncommon.