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.
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.
Purpose Of Review:
The increasing prevalence of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) makes it important to study the cardiovascular implications of this disease and the drugs used to treat it. As more patients are diagnosed with ADHD across the world and these medications are prescribed more, it is imperative to understand the cardiovascular risk profile associated with these medications. This narrative review will highlight the importance of considering cardiovascular risk factors inherent to ADHD and the medications currently used to treat it.
Recent Findings:
Chronic sympathetic activation as caused by ADHD therapies has numerous effects on the cardiovascular system including an increase in blood pressure and heart rate. These changes could potentially lead to heart failure, arrythmias or even sudden cardiac death. While a few studies that have shown no correlation between ADHD medications and cardiovascular effects, current guidelines recommend a thorough assessment prior to initiating treatment and periodic monitoring during treatment.
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