Kids Taking Stimulants For ADHD May Need Cardiac Screening
US News is reporting that the American Heart Association has issued a recommendation today that, "calls for cardiovascular screening before prescribing stimulant treatment for all children diagnosed with ADHD".
Interestingly the article says that 33 percent to 42 percent of pediatric heart patients also have ADHD. If these children take stimulants for ADHD they would have an increased risk for sudden cardiac arrest.
The recommended course of treatment for these children would include:
taking of a detailed patient and family medical history, particularly regarding heart disease; a full physical exam, including blood pressure and heart beat monitoring; an electrocardiogram (ECG); and a pediatric cardiologist consultation prior to treatment if evidence of heart disease is uncovered.
After treatment begins, the AHA said that children should continue to have blood pressure check-ups once every one to three months, as well as routine health check-ups every six to twelve months.
For more information click on the US News link above.
Interestingly the article says that 33 percent to 42 percent of pediatric heart patients also have ADHD. If these children take stimulants for ADHD they would have an increased risk for sudden cardiac arrest.
The recommended course of treatment for these children would include:
taking of a detailed patient and family medical history, particularly regarding heart disease; a full physical exam, including blood pressure and heart beat monitoring; an electrocardiogram (ECG); and a pediatric cardiologist consultation prior to treatment if evidence of heart disease is uncovered.
After treatment begins, the AHA said that children should continue to have blood pressure check-ups once every one to three months, as well as routine health check-ups every six to twelve months.
For more information click on the US News link above.
Replies to This Discussion
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Permalink Reply by Debbie on -
I just saw this in my local paper. I think this is a good idea due to the fact ADHD medicines are stimulants and if the child doesn't really have ADHD but just has behavior problems I would think prescribing these types of meds could cause unnecessary harm. Ezra is on ADHD medicine and he is monitored every three months having to go to the doctor to check pressure and weight.
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