A new study published in JAMA Psychiatry found that long-term use of attention-deficit / hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) medications is associated with an increased risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD), particularly hypertension. The research examined over 60,000 individuals in Sweden diagnosed with ADHD or taking ADHD medications between 2007-2020. It found that longer cumulative duration of ADHD medication use corresponded with higher CVD risk - for example, those taking medications for 3-5 years had a 27% higher CVD risk compared to non-users. Each additional year of medication use was linked to a 4% increase in CVD risk over 14 years of follow-up. The elevated risks were seen for both children / youth and adults, and were primarily driven by increased hypertension. The authors conclude that careful monitoring is important given the growing number of people on long-term ADHD medications. One important limitation is that the study cannot prove causation between ADHD drugs and CVD, only an association.
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How long will you be on your meds?
How long will you be on your meds?
How long will you be on your meds?
A new study published in JAMA Psychiatry found that long-term use of attention-deficit / hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) medications is associated with an increased risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD), particularly hypertension. The research examined over 60,000 individuals in Sweden diagnosed with ADHD or taking ADHD medications between 2007-2020. It found that longer cumulative duration of ADHD medication use corresponded with higher CVD risk - for example, those taking medications for 3-5 years had a 27% higher CVD risk compared to non-users. Each additional year of medication use was linked to a 4% increase in CVD risk over 14 years of follow-up. The elevated risks were seen for both children / youth and adults, and were primarily driven by increased hypertension. The authors conclude that careful monitoring is important given the growing number of people on long-term ADHD medications. One important limitation is that the study cannot prove causation between ADHD drugs and CVD, only an association.
The AutSide is a reader-supported publication. To support my work, consider becoming a paid subscriber.