Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and growth

ABSTRACT

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder [ADHD] is a common neuropsychiatric syndrome of childhood and adolescence in which stimulant medications are used to treat it. The evidence clearly indicates a temporary retardation in the rate of growth in weight and stature, with no effect on adult height. In this article we present a case with ADHD on stimulant therapy that had a catch up growth after the discontinuation of therapy, then review the literature on possible growth, and suppressing effects of these medications in the long term treatment. Most of the previous studies suggest that the stimulant-associated height deficits in ADHD are temporary and early manifestation of ADHD itself and not complication of therapy, and the small risk of lost centimeters may be a price worth paying for many children to gain improved learning and social function