American Academy of Pediatrics Nixes Heart Tests Before ADHD Drugs

CHICAGO - The nation’s largest pediatricians’ group says most children getting attention-deficit drugs don’t need heart screening with electrocardiogram tests, challenging advice from a leading heart doctors’ association. The new policy from the American Academy of Pediatrics renews a debate over the safety of the powerful stimulants. More than half of the 4 million U.S. children diagnosed with attention-deficit disorders are being treated with stimulant drugs.

MORE ON THIS TOPIC