Cardiovascular Risk Associated with the Treatment of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in Adults

Aditi Kothari1, John Paul Aparece2, Raul Del Toro Mijares2

  • 1Division of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, El Paso, TX, USA. adikotha@ttuhsc.edu.

PubMed

Insights

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and its treatments can impact cardiovascular health, potentially increasing risks like heart failure. Careful patient assessment and ongoing monitoring are crucial when managing ADHD with medication.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Psychiatry
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is increasingly diagnosed globally.
  • ADHD medications are frequently prescribed, necessitating cardiovascular risk assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the cardiovascular implications of ADHD.
  • To examine the cardiovascular risks associated with ADHD medications.

Main Methods:

  • This is a narrative review.
  • Literature was reviewed regarding ADHD, its treatments, and cardiovascular effects.

Main Results:

  • ADHD therapies can cause chronic sympathetic activation, leading to increased blood pressure and heart rate.
  • Potential cardiovascular risks include heart failure, arrhythmias, and sudden cardiac death.
  • Some studies show no correlation, but guidelines recommend pre-treatment assessment and monitoring.

Conclusions:

  • Cardiovascular risk factors associated with ADHD and its treatments must be considered.
  • Thorough cardiovascular assessment and regular monitoring are recommended for patients on ADHD medication.
Abstract

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