Management of a Hyperactive Teen and Cardiac Safety

Since the earliest descriptions of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, controversy has prevailed as to the existence and appropriate management of this condition. Often diagnosed in childhood, symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder can continue into adolescence and adulthood, requiring lifelong therapy. Effective therapeutic interventions include stimulant medications with all their respective potential side effects, including the cardiovascular system, However, although initial studies raised concerns for an increase in serious adverse cardiovascular effects among children receiving these drugs, more recent and extensive reports have failed to substantiate those findings among young patients.