ADHD Meds & Heart Health: New Study Findings
- Medications for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have generally small effects on blood pressure and heart rate,according to a new study from the University of Southampton.The research, which analyzed numerous...
- The study,published in the Lancet Psychiatry,examined the cardiovascular effects of various ADHD medications.
- The research found that most ADHD medications had small effects on blood pressure, heart rate, and ECG parameters.
A groundbreaking new study sheds light on ADHD meds adn their impact on heart health. Researchers found that the majority of ADHD medication options have only small effects on blood pressure and heart rate, which is a meaningful finding for the millions managing ADHD. The research, published in The Lancet Psychiatry, analyzed data from over 100 clinical trials, revealing that, in most cases, the benefits of ADHD medications likely outweigh the minor cardiovascular risks. Healthcare professionals should still carefully monitor patients. This study may shape future clinical guidelines. news Directory 3 reports this vital research. Discover what further research reveals about specific patient groups and potential side effects.
Study Assesses Cardiovascular Effects of ADHD Medication
Updated June 10,2025
Medications for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have generally small effects on blood pressure and heart rate,according to a new study from the University of Southampton.The research, which analyzed numerous randomized controlled trials, suggests the benefits of ADHD medication may outweigh the risks, though careful monitoring is still recommended.
The study,published in the Lancet Psychiatry,examined the cardiovascular effects of various ADHD medications. Researchers analyzed data from 102 randomized controlled trials, encompassing 22,702 participants.The team used network meta-analysis to compare the effects of different medications, even those not directly compared in the trials.
The research found that most ADHD medications had small effects on blood pressure, heart rate, and ECG parameters. Guanfacine was an exception, leading to decreased blood pressure and heart rate. Stimulants and non-stimulants showed no significant differences in their effects.
professor Samuele Cortese, University of Southampton, served as the study’s senior lead author. “When it comes to taking any medication, risks and benefits should always be assessed together,” Cortese said. He noted the study found a small increase in blood pressure and pulse for most children taking ADHD medications.
Dr. luis Farhat, the study’s first author from the University of São Paulo, Brazil, emphasized the need for systematic monitoring. “Our findings should inform future clinical guidelines, stressing the need to systematically monitor blood pressure and heart rate, both for stimulants and non-stimulants,” Farhat said.
What’s next
Researchers plan to investigate whether specific groups are more susceptible to cardiovascular side effects from ADHD medication. Those with existing heart conditions should consult a cardiologist before starting treatment.