The benefits of taking ADHD medications outweigh the health risks, new data suggests.
A team of international researchers analysed the cardiovascular effects of ADHD medications on adults and children.
Findings published in the Lancet Psychiatry journal show ADHD medications have a low impact on blood pressure and heart rate.
The study also compared the health impacts of stimulant and non-stimulant ADHD medications. No significant differences were identified between treatments.
ADHD
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that impacts around one in 20 Australians.
ADHD can make it difficult to concentrate or control impulses. Symptoms usually present in childhood.
Diagnosis requires a thorough behavioural assessment. The condition is currently more commonly diagnosed in boys.
In most cases, medication is only prescribed by psychiatrists and paediatricians.
New study
The University of Southampton led a global study into the effects of several ADHD medications, including stimulants like lisdexamfetamine (e.g. Vyvanse) and Methylphenidate (e.g. Ritalin).
The study was launched in response to, “concerns about the cardiovascular safety,” of these medications.
Researchers analysed data from 22,700 participants, tracking changes to their blood pressure and heart rate over a one year period.
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Nearly 60% of participants were children and adolescents.
Findings
Some ADHD medications stimulate the nervous system, while others act by slowing it.
The study said this explains why some people experience increases or decreases in blood pressure and heart rate, after they start taking treatment.
The study found that “all ADHD medications were generally associated with overall small effects on blood pressure, heart rate,” and other cardiovascular parameters.
For the majority of children taking ADHD medications, researchers recorded “a small increase in blood pressure and pulse.”
No significant differences were found between stimulant and non-stimulant types of ADHD medications.
However, researchers said practitioners should continue to monitor blood pressure and pulse in patients with ADHD.
The study also recommends people with heart conditions consult a cardiologist before starting ADHD medication.
Next steps
The study’s lead author, Professor Samuele Cortese, said “the risk-benefit ratio is reassuring for people taking ADHD medications.”
A statement from the University of Southampton said the findings should be “complemented by results from real-world, longer-term studies.”
However, it noted a gap in research to understand the the long term cardiovascular effects of ADHD medications. The study’s authors have called for more funding to facilitate this research.
