Research suggest that children who take ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) medications are at high risk of developing heart attacks. Although it seldom happens, healthcare providers and parents have been warned to be extra cautious when giving children these medications.

According to Reuters, researchers found out that the risk of having heart problems when taking ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) medication is not limited to young children, but also applies to adults.

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Nicole Pratt, one of the authors of the study from the University of South Australia in Adelaide, noted that these heart-related problems rarely occur. Nonetheless, she noted that parents and healthcare providers should still be cautious. Pratt highlighted that methylphenidate or Ritalin should be prescribed with care, and a health check should be done before the medication is prescribed.

"Our results suggest that the events are rare. However, parents and clinicians should be aware of the potential for adverse cardiac effects," Pratt said.

Pratt admitted that more study needs to be done on this subject.

Methylphenidate can reduce a patient's hyperactivity, especially in children. Although it may effectively decrease the symptoms of ADHD, Pratt and her research team are concerned about the possible side effect on the child's health.

The researchers studied insurance data from children in South Korea aged 17 and younger. Each participant was diagnosed with ADHD and is taking methylphenidate.

The study lasted for three years, from 2008 and 2011. The study revealed that some of these children developed cardiovascular diseases and high blood pressure. 

The researchers were not able to fully confirm the negative effects of methylphenidate and Retailn and its correlation to heart attacks and heart failures.

TagsADHD, Methylphenidate, University of South Australia, Korea, Nicole Pratt, Ritalin