The study, funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research, analyzed data from 102 trials involving 22,702 participants using advanced network meta-analysis techniques.

Due to the short duration of randomized trials, the authors emphasize the need for more extensive real-world, long-term studies to validate their findings.

Future research will focus on identifying specific groups that may be more susceptible to cardiovascular side effects from ADHD medications, emphasizing the importance of precision medicine.

A recent study published in The Lancet Psychiatry journal indicates that while ADHD medications can lead to cardiovascular side effects, such as increased blood pressure and heart rate, their overall benefits significantly outweigh these risks.

The research found no notable differences in cardiovascular effects between stimulant and non-stimulant ADHD medications.

ADHD is characterized by short attention spans and hyperactivity, typically diagnosed in childhood and often continuing into adulthood.

Dr. Tony Lord points out the long-term benefits of ADHD medication, which include reduced risks of anxiety and depression, improved educational outcomes, and enhanced economic independence.

Practitioners are advised to monitor blood pressure and pulse in all ADHD patients receiving pharmacological treatment, not only those on stimulant medications.

Researchers are calling for further long-term studies to better understand the cardiovascular effects of ADHD medications over time and across various patient demographics.

Globally, the prevalence of ADHD is estimated at about 8% among children and teenagers, with boys diagnosed at twice the rate of girls; in India, prevalence ranges from 1% to nearly 30%.

A think tank has reported an 18% increase in ADHD prescriptions in England since the pandemic, highlighting a growing demand for ADHD and autism services, particularly in London.

Dr. Ulrich Müller-Sedgwick stresses the need for improved guidelines regarding the adjustment or discontinuation of ADHD medication based on cardiovascular health.