1. The Worrying Mystery in Children with ADHD: Autonomic Nervous System Dysregulation and Methylphenidate Use
- Author
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Özlem TURAN and Abdullah KOCABAŞ
- Subjects
attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder ,cardiovascular risk ,variability in heart rate ,methylphenidate ,Medicine (General) ,R5-920 - Abstract
Objective: Children with attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may have an increased risk of cardiovascular complications due to reduced vagal tone and increased heart rate (HR). Methylphenidate (MPH) is a frequently used drug, and its sympathomimetic effects often cause pediatricians to be concerned when making diagnostic and treatment decisions. We aimed to assess the effects of MPH on the cardiovascular system and autonomic activity of the heart using heart rate variability (HRV) in ADHD patients. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed physical examination, blood pressure (BP), and 24-hour Holter monitoring in 33 patients (9.7±2.6 years) and 36 healthy subjects (9.54±2.8 years). The results of the examinations at the end of the first month of MPH treatment were compared with the pre-treatment findings in the patient group. Results: Systolic and diastolic BP measurements were similar between the groups at diagnosis. The patients showed a mild increase in systolic and diastolic BP after treatment, but the differences were not statistically significant (p=0.059 and p=0.063, respectively). However, increase in heart rate and QTc duration on ECG was statistically significant in the patient group (p=0.001 and
- Published
- 2024
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