In a recent study shared by Medical Xpress on Jan. 21, it finds that boys given stimulant medication to help with ADHD has proven to stunt the growth and putertal development of teen boys if taken for more than three years. Ultimately maturation during puberty including when a boy will hit their peak growth was effected by the medication. Onset of puberty was not effected, however, how the boys were growing during that time was.
The study looked at 65 boys between the ages of 12 and 16. The boys that did not have ADHD were found to have higher weight, and height than the other boys. They also developed at a quicker rate than the boys taking stimulant medications.
It is being recommended that boys with ADHD only take the minimum amount of stimulant medications that adequately treats the learning disability so that the best rate of growth during puberty can occur. Compared to boys without ADHD, boys between the ages of 12-14 had significantly lower body mass index and lower weight. Boys between the ages of 14-16 were significantly shorter and had a lower weight still. There is also significant delay in puberty between the ages of 14 and 16.
The study found that those that didn't take ADHD stimulant medications for three or more years were better off during their pubescent years. This is a direct correlation to length of medication time and the physical growth during puberty.
Many parents are surprised to see the study results, however, they don't seem too perturbed by the results considering there was not any mental or other harmful effects besides delayed puberty to their teen boys. There is no known study as of yet on how teen girls are effected by stimulant medications given for ADHD treatment.
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