ADHD Experts Podcast 588- Heart Health and ADHD Treatment: Implications of Stimulant Use for Adults
Dec 16, 2025
Dr. Samuele Cortese, a prominent ADHD researcher from the University of Southampton, discusses critical findings on the intersection of heart health and ADHD treatment. He explains how long-term stimulant use can be safe with proper monitoring, despite some elevated blood pressure risks. Cortese emphasizes the benefits of stimulants in reducing mortality and substance misuse. He also urges individualized assessments for elderly patients, addressing misconceptions about stimulant addiction, and promotes a new evidence platform for informed treatment decisions.
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Stimulants Are Highly Effective
- Stimulant medications are among the most effective treatments in psychiatry for reducing ADHD symptoms.
- Trials show large effect sizes but are mostly short-term, so benefit must be weighed against long-term safety data.
Long-Term Use Lowers Serious Risks
- Real-world long-term data link stimulant use to reduced risks of mortality, suicidal behavior, substance misuse, accidents, and criminality.
- These population studies suggest benefits extend beyond symptom control to meaningful life outcomes.
Monitor Cardiovascular Metrics
- Monitor blood pressure, heart rate, and ECG before and during ADHD medication for all ages.
- Expect small average increases but track individuals closely because responses can vary.