ADHD and its medications may influence BMI in children and teens

Embargoed until: Publicly released: 2026-01-06 03:00

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Prepubescent children and teens with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) - especially those taking medication - could be at risk of a higher BMI, according to international research. The team recruited nearly 13,000 children aged 6-11 and nearly 22,000 teens and compared their height and BMI over time, looking at whether they had an ADHD diagnosis and whether they were treating it with methylphenidate - sold as Concerta and Ritalin in Australia. Following this cohort into adulthood, the researchers say those with ADHD had on average a one point higher BMI compared to those without ADHD, and this link was stronger for those who had been on ADHD medication. There was no link between ADHD and shorter height but those taking the medication were on average slightly shorter, the researchers add. They say these findings don't mean ADHD medication shouldn't be given to young people to help them with their symptoms, but potential impacts on growth and weight should be considered.