Impact of stimulant medications on bone health in children with ADHD
OA Version
Citation
Abstract
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is known to be one of the most prevalent neurodevelopment disorders among children over the globe. To treat symptoms associated with impulsivity and excessive movement, stimulant medications like amphetamine and methylphenidate are frequently prescribed. These medications help improve ADHD symptoms; however, recent studies have raised concerns about their impact on overall health, and bone health in particular, during critical developmental stages in childhood and adolescence. Research indicates that stimulant medications can impact maximal skeletal growth, which includes bone mineral density (BMD) and bone mineral content (BMC), both necessary for the development and maintenance of healthy bones throughout one’s lifetime. If these critical processes are altered in childhood, there is an increased risk of developing osteoporosis and sustaining fractures in advanced age. This is indeed a major public health issue. To further understand this matter, this study analyzed data from more than six thousand children aged between eight and sixteen, assessing the effects of stimulant medications on BMD and BMC in important skeletal regions such as lumbar spine and femoral neck. These effects seem to stem from multiple mechanisms, including reduced nutrient absorption, hormonal imbalances, and decreased physical activity due to side effects like appetite suppression. It is important to remember that while stimulants can help manage ADHD, their potential effect of weakening bones needs to be assessed on a long-term basis. This is crucial for bone health during the teenage years. With this approach, clinicians will be able to follow the dynamics of bone development, timely indicators of low bone density, and undertake preventive measures to achieve favorable skeletal outcomes. This perspective aids in treating ADHD symptoms while ensuring that the bone and overall health of these children in the long run is fully maintained.
Description
2025