I talked to our pharmacist last night and did some research on the internet...

All of the stimulants and some of the other meds that are regularly prescribed for ADHD, ADD can cause Sinus arrhythmia, Possible left atrial enlargement, Left ventricular hypertrophy.

The drug companies (specifically the company that makes Adderall) have all said that ECG's (EKG's) are not necessary tests to have while on these meds. HOWEVER- study after study has shown major side effects besides those listed above such as Convulsions, Myocardial Infarction, and Liver Damage (just to name a few).

A few tests before starting these medications and at least once a year can be lifesavers. Tests such as Liver Enzyme Levels, 12 Lead ECG's, and blood cell counts should be made adjuncts to taking these meds.

Ritalin has been around since the 1930's and a far as studies, they are only as good and legitimate as the person or people conducting them. I don't know of any one single documented medical case in any medical journals stating that stimulants caused any of the above.

I do think its important to have an EEG test done before starting med's to make sure there is no pre existing heart problems and maybe for your own peace of mind, have as many tests ran as you think necessary. However, I have been researching ADHD and medications for it for over 20 years and sadly enough, I still see the same junk science being recycled and fed to parents I personally was more afraid of the repercussions of untreated or ineffectively treated ADHD. All medications can be dangerous if they are not taken as prescribed or given to someone who for some reason shouldn't take a medication due to other medical problems and that's why when you have doubts or questions about medication, its wise to speak to the treating physician or a pharmacist as they are the experts. It can be dangerous to poll opinions from non professionals as one could be misinformed or make decisions based on fear rather than accurate knowledge.

Hi lethy proud mom. How is JD's heart now? Jon has been dx'd pretty much with what JD has and there is atrial involvement also. We may be taking him to Gainesville at the end of the week for some further testing (echocardiogram). How is JD doing without the meds for adhd? I just can't really imagine Jon functioning without them. Jon also had ekg's and ecg's in the past and they were normal.

It has probably been harder on my husband and me than Jon because he really doesn't know there is a problem. All he knows is that these are follow up tests because of his hopitalization.

As an engineer, I often run into a challenge, problem solving with incomplete data. The issue is usually missing 'Base-line-Data' or the information gathered before you've made a change (in the beginning....). I've talked with many doctors who also agree that often it is difficult to diagnosis a problem because they have no idea what the 'base-line' is for the patient or 'what is normal'.

So in layman's terms, whenever possible, have your child tested, not only for an EKG, but for blood tests as well. Many ADHD or Bipolar meds impact the liver and kidneys so by having baseline blood sugar/glucose and liver enzyme tested you'll be able to track if levels become elevated....since you'll have something to compare with. One of the problems is getting your insurance to pay for test because they are not connected to a diagnosis. This takes a really understanding doctor who will order them and stretch an insurance code to cover.

Just a little clarification. First off, what we call an ekg is actually an ECG. EKG is more of a slang term. And, Lethy, your child's conditions would not have showed up on an ECG. I am sorry that he has developed these probems. No child sohuld have to suffer what yours went through.

An ECG is not required before prescribing adhd meds. The Amer. ped assoc thinks that the AHA is being too pushy with their recommmendation.

However, personally, I agree that a baseline is a good idea. A baseline along with a good family medical history is essential for a good diagnosis and proper treatment. [JMHO]