Title: Cardiovascular effects of methylphenidate in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Authors: Pramesh Dogra, Sunita Mondal, Rajiv Bandhu, Dinesh Kataria, Om Sai Ramesh V

 DOI:  https://dx.doi.org/10.18535/jmscr/v6i6.39

Abstract

The present study was conceived with the objective to examine the effects of methylphenidate on cardiovascular variables in children with Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). ECG indices plus systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic BP (DBP) and heart rate (HR) were assessed in 52 children with ADHD (dosage of 0.3- 1 mg/ kg body weight). Cardiovascular parameters were assessed at baseline and 12 weeks. Small but statistically significant changes in DBP and HR were observed at 12 weeks without clinically meaningful changes in ECG. Increase in heart rate and Blood pressure could be attributed to the increased sympathetic activity caused by methylphenidate.

Keywords: methylphenidate, ADHD, Cardiovascular effects.

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Corresponding Author

Dr Pramesh Dogra

Medical Officer, Directorate of Health Services, Department of Health and Family Welfare

Govt. of Himachal Pradesh, SDA Complex, Kasumpti, Shimla, India – 171006

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., Mob No.8010826664