ADHD medication may not elevate cardiovascular risks for adults
People who have attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can buy medications such as atomoxetine through a Canadian internet pharmacy, often at prices cheaper than what are found in the U.S.
People who have attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can buy medications such as atomoxetine through a Canadian internet pharmacy, often at prices cheaper than what are found in the U.S. However, there has been some concern surrounding these drugs because of reports that they may raise blood pressure and other cardiac risks. A new study from the Kaiser Permanente Northern California Division of Research suggests that these elevated risks do not occur in young to middle-aged adults taking these medications.
In order to investigate, the study team reviewed the data of more than 150,000 individuals, aged 25 to 64 years, who were taking atomoxetine, methylphenidate and other treatments. Compared to people who didn't take these medications, the subjects who did were not more likely to experience cardiac events.
Furthermore, patients taking these drugs were not at higher risk for cardiac events than former users who did not take them within the previous year. Risks did not increase according to type of medication, duration of use or other factors, as published in the Journal of the American Medical Association.
However, the researchers noted several study limitations.
"It's important to note that this is an observational study and not a randomized clinical trial," said researcher Laurel Habel, PhD. Also, drug use tended to be for less than a year.
The scientists could not rule out slight or moderate risk increases, adding that any patient concerns should be discussed with a physician.
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