ADHD Medications: A Heart-Friendly Option?
MONDAY, April 14, 2025 (HealthDay News) — Many individuals prescribed medications for ADHD may have concerns about their impact on heart health. However, according to a recent evidence review published in The Lancet Psychiatry, there’s little cause for alarm.
The study reveals that ADHD medications generally exhibit only a mild effect on blood pressure, heart rate, and overall heart electrical activity.
Researchers investigating various types of ADHD medications, including methylphenidate and amphetamine (stimulants), as well as atomoxetine and viloxazine (non-stimulants), found no significant differences between these medication classes.
Dr. Samuele Cortese, a professor at the University of Southampton, stated, ‘Overall, the risk-benefit ratio is reassuring for people taking ADHD medications.’
This comprehensive analysis pooled results from 102 clinical trials involving over 22,700 individuals diagnosed with ADHD. Results indicated that all ADHD medications were linked to slight increases in blood pressure and heart rate, with only the medication guanfacine associated with reductions in both metrics.
“Our findings suggest that the benefits of these medications outweigh potential risks,” added Dr. Cortese.
Despite the reassuring results, the researchers emphasized the importance of continuous monitoring of blood pressure and heart rate for patients on ADHD medications. Dr. Luis Farhat, a lead researcher, remarked that it is essential for health practitioners to monitor these vital signs, even for non-stimulant medications, dispelling the misconception that only stimulants pose cardiovascular risks.
Patients with existing heart conditions should consult with a cardiologist about ADHD medications before beginning treatment. Additionally, the researchers stressed the need for further studies to assess the long-term effects of these medications.
‘While it is currently not possible to identify those individuals at higher risk, efforts based on precision medicine approaches will hopefully provide important insights in the future,’ Cortese noted.
What This Means For You
It is advisable for individuals prescribed ADHD medications to discuss their relationship with heart health with their doctors.
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