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