ADHD in kids: Dexamphetamine associated with more early weight loss than methylphenidate in Aussie study
The University of Sydney study found the two stimulants were equally effective in treating the condition.
Children and teens prescribed dexamphetamine for DSM-5-confirmed ADHD have significantly more weight loss during early treatment than those on methylphenidate, Australian research suggests.
The randomised trial of 100 4-17-year-olds (73% male) found dexamphetamine was associated with an average weight loss of 1.4kg in the first three months compared with 300g with methylphenidate.
The two stimulants were, however, equally effective in treating ADHD symptoms, according to the study published in the Journal of Paediatrics and Child Health.
“The results align with what we’re seeing in the real world,” said Dr Tim Jones, chair of the RACGP’s Child and Young Person’s Health Specific Interests group.
