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The use of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder medications in cardiac disease

Constantin-Cristian Topriceanu1,2,3,4,5, James C Moon2,4, Gabriella Captur2,3,6

  • 1Barnet, Enfield and Haringey Mental Health Trust, London, United Kingdom.

Frontiers in Neuroscience
|November 7, 2022
PubMed

Insights

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) medications, particularly stimulants, are generally safe for individuals with heart conditions. This review clarifies cardiovascular risks, supporting timely ADHD treatment for improved quality of life.

Area of Science:

  • Neurodevelopmental disorders
  • Pharmacology
  • Cardiovascular medicine

Background:

  • Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder impacting children and adults.
  • Untreated ADHD leads to adverse outcomes and reduced quality of life.
  • Pharmacological treatments, including stimulants and non-stimulants, are effective for ADHD management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the cardiovascular safety of ADHD medications.
  • To evaluate the evidence for safe ADHD medication use in patients with pre-existing cardiovascular diseases.
  • To address concerns regarding serious cardiovascular events and QT effects.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies on ADHD medication and cardiovascular safety.
  • Analysis of evidence regarding stimulant and non-stimulant effects on heart rate and blood pressure.
  • Examination of risks versus benefits in patients with cardiovascular conditions.

Main Results:

  • Stimulant ADHD medications can increase heart rate and blood pressure but show no significant association with serious cardiovascular events.
  • Concerns about QT effects and sudden cardiac death risk may lead to overly cautious prescribing.
  • Evidence suggests benefits of timely ADHD treatment may outweigh risks for many patients, including those with heart disease.

Conclusions:

  • Current evidence does not strongly support a link between ADHD medications and serious cardiovascular events.
  • A careful risk-benefit assessment is crucial for prescribing ADHD medications to patients with cardiovascular disease.
  • Further research is needed to fully elucidate cardiovascular risks and guide safe prescribing practices.

Keywords:
ADHD (attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder)aortopathiesblood pressurecardiomyopathiescardiovascular diseaseelectrocardiogram (ECG)non-stimulant medications for ADHDstimulant medications for ADHD

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