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ADHD Drugs Stunt Growth

May 5, 2006

A recent analysis of previous drug studies has shown that ADHD drugs, such as Adderall and Ritalin, suppress the growth of children. Neurologist and co-author of the study, Omar Khwaja M.D., says the effect is statistically significant.

Researchers say that the growth restricting effects of ADHD drugs are not extreme. For an average ten-year-old boy, for example, ADHD drugs might stunt his growth by inch in height and about two pounds in weight.

Dr. Kawaja explains that parents need to be aware of the possibility of stunted growth being the side effect of their child's ADHD medication. He also adds that doctors need to carefully monitor a child's growth when taking an ADHD drug to modify or change the dose when signs of growth retardation develop.

Researchers do not know if stunted growth caused by ADHD drugs is permanent or if children are able to catch up, growth-wise, once they stop taking these drugs.

More studies are needed to determine the long-term threats to growth posed by ADHD drugs.

According to the National Institute of Public Health, as many as five percent of American children has ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Most of these patients are given stimulants like Ritalin and Adderall to calm their hyperactivity.

However, there are serious side effects associated with ADHD drugs. Evidence shows that ADHD drugs may increase the risk of sudden death, heart attacks, and high blood pressure in patients. Addiction, abuse, and other significant drawbacks are also associated with this class of drugs. Now the growth restriction caused by these drugs is another serious ADHD drug side effect to add to the growing list.

For more information on drug safety information, please contact us to confer with an attorney.

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