ADHD and Methylphenidate Use in Prepubertal Children and BMI and Height at Adulthood

Is the long-term prevalence of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and methylphenidate (MPH) use in children associated with body mass index (BMI) and height at adulthood?In this cohort study of 12 866 children aged 6 to 11 years, those with ADHD had a higher BMI and slightly shorter height than controls without ADHD. These associations were stronger among those receiving MPH therapy, particularly with long-term exposure.The findings of this study suggest that children with ADHD, especially those receiving MPH therapy, may face greater risks of obesity and modest height reduction, highlighting the importance of continuous growth monitoring.

Corresponding Authors: Seogsong Jeong, MD, PhD, Department of Biomedical Informatics, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea (seogsongjeong@korea.ac.kr); Sang Min Park, MD, MPH, PhD, Department of Family Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital 101, Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea (smpark.snuh@gmail.com).

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