A new systematic review and network meta-analysis showed few differences in the cardiovascular (CV) effects of stimulants and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors used to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Short-term use of amphetamines, atomoxetine, lisdexamfetamine, methylphenidate, and viloxazine was associated with small increases in blood pressure (BP), pulse, or both in children, adolescents, and adults.
Further, the effects of stimulants, including amphetamines, lisdexamfetamine, or methylphenidate, were not significantly different from those of atomoxetine or viloxazine in the study groups.
In contrast, the alpha-2a agonist guanfacine lowered BP and pulse in both groups compared with placebo.
“Our findings stress the need to follow current recommendations to measure blood pressure and pulse at…