The Effects of Stimulant Medication on the Growth of Hyperkinetic Children

Abstract

The literature on possible growth-suppressing effects of stimulant medications in the long-term treatment of children with the hyperkinetic behavior syndrome is reviewed. The evidence clearly indicates a temporary retardation in the rate of growth in weight and suggests a temporary slowing of growth in stature, but no effect on adult stature or weight. This temporary effect on growth is present during the first few years of treatment and seems related to drug dosage and to the presence or absence of drug holidays. These conclusions relate specifically to treatment during the prepubertal period; little is known of the growth-related effects of treatment extending through pubescence.