Pharmacologic controversy of CNS stimulants in Gilles de la Tourette's syndrome

Abstract

The controversy of the use of stimulants in Gilles de la Tourette's syndrome (GTS) can only be understood by examining the relationship between GTS and attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), because the relationship between the two disorders is complex, and stimulants are used in the one (ADHD) and may be contraindicated in the other (GTS). This relationship therefore has to be viewed from several perspectives, including clinical, genetic, neurobiochemical, neurophysiological, and treatment strategies, to highlight the complexities involved, and reasons for controversy. The present review will examine these relationships, and thus the evidence for and against the treatment of GTS with stimulants.