Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and growth

Abstract

Objective: 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.
Case Presentation: 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.
Conclusion: 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.