ADHD Medications Linked With Decreased Bone Density In Children, According To Study

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neurobehavioral childhood disorder that can be treated with ADHD medications. However, a new study shows that ADHD medications might have a connection with decreased bone density in children.

News 4 Jax reports that the study was presented to the public at the 2016 Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. "This is an important step in understanding a medication class, that is used with increasing frequency, and its effect on children who are at a critical time for building their bones," said U.S. Army Institute of Surgical Research orthopedic surgeon and study author Jessica Rivera, MD.

The research involved the study of more than 5,000 pediatric patients. The researchers compared the bone density levels of kids who are taking ADHD medications and those who were not taking those medications. "The results indicate that children on ADHD medication had lower bone mineral density in the femur, femoral neck and lumbar spine," News 4 Jax shared.

About 25 percent of the children taking ADHD medications showed signs of osteopenia - a disorder involving lower levels of bone density than normal but is less severe compared to osteoporosis, according to WebMD. "Parents of patients taking ADHD medications should be informed of potential bone loss, especially if the findings of this study are validated in prospective studies," Dr. Rivera added.

Children with ADHD are over-active and have difficulties in concentrating, focusing and controlling their behavior, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Other symptoms include getting bored easily; difficulties in finishing tasks and following instructions; constant daydreaming; fidgeting; restlessness and impatience.

The most common treatments for the condition are ADHD medications and psychotherapy. Some of the most common ADHD medications include Adderall (amphetamine), Concerta (methylphenidate), Desoxyn (methamphetamine hydrochloride), Dexedrine (dextroamphetamine), Focalin (dexmethylphenidate), Methylin (methylphenidate oral solution and chewable tablets), Ritalin (methylphenidate), Strattera (atomoxetine) and Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate).