Management of a hyperactive teen and cardiac safety

Abstract

Since the earliest descriptions of the condition, controversy has prevailed as to the existence of as well as appropriate management of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Often diagnosed in childhood, symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder can continue into adolescence and adulthood, requiring lifelong therapy. Effective therapeutic interventions include stimulant medications with all their respective potential side effects, including the cardiovascular system. However, although initial studies raised concerns for an increase in serious adverse cardiovascular effects among children receiving these drugs, more recent and extensive reports have failed to substantiate those findings among young patients.

Keywords: ADHD; Arrhythmias; Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder; Electrocardiogram; Hypertension; QT interval; Sudden cardiac death; Tachycardia.