A prominent cardiologist has raised concerns about the potential long-term cardiovascular risks associated with commonly prescribed ADHD medications, particularly in children and young adults. Dr. Evan Levine, a Scarsdale-based cardiologist who maintains a significant following on TikTok, has expressed serious reservations about the widespread use of these medications, describing the current prescribing practices as approaching “borderline child abuse.”
Breaking down the medication types, Dr. Levine explained that ADHD medications fall into two categories: methylphenidates like Ritalin and Concerta, and amphetamines such as Adderall and Vyvanse. Both classifications increase norepinephrine levels in the bloodstream, potentially leading to elevated blood pressure and heart rhythm irregularities.
Our researchers have found that ADHD medications have overall small effects on blood pressure and heart rate.
They say the benefits of these medications outweigh the risks, while highlighting the need for careful monitoring.
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— University of Southampton (@unisouthampton) April 7, 2025
While a 2011 FDA study initially suggested these medications were safe for young and middle-aged adults, Dr. Levine notes a significant limitation: “But the study clearly states the average follow-up was only 1.3 years,” he added. “So, yeah, young healthy people have no risk at 1.3 years with elevated norepinephrine levels in their blood.” The cardiologist’s concerns have been validated by recent research. April 2024 data revealed that healthy individuals aged 20-40 who used these medications for eight years showed a 57% higher risk of cardiac issues compared to non-users.
The study also found that one in every 500 patients developed cardiomyopathy. The scope of potential impact is substantial, given current diagnosis rates. Recent statistics indicate ADHD diagnoses in one of every nine children and one in seventeen adults, with some medical professionals questioning the legitimacy of all cases.
"People taking antidepressants are more likely to die suddenly from heart problems",
And the longer they take these drugs, the higher their risk of sudden death.
Big Pharma makes Billions from these medicines, so unsupris8ngly you haven't heard about this. Bad for Business. pic.twitter.com/Q2qfxJcoWB
— Chay Bowes (@BowesChay) April 5, 2025
Dr. Levine expressed particular concern about individuals using these medications without proper ADHD diagnoses, solely to enhance academic or athletic performance. He also highlighted the increased accessibility of these drugs through telehealth services, asking “Who is vetting these services? ‘Hi, my name is Evan and I cannot concentrate and need some Adderall. Thank you,'” he said.
Drawing attention to the sports world’s strict regulations, Dr. Levine noted that Olympic athletes must obtain special exemptions to use these medications, suggesting some might falsely claim ADHD diagnoses to gain competitive advantages. The solution, according to Dr. Levine, lies in improving mental health care access and exploring non-stimulant alternatives. “With better behavioral health, available psychiatric evaluation and alternatives like non-stimulants, of course the amount of prescriptions for these drugs will diminish,” he said.
While acknowledging the importance of treating ADHD, Dr. Levine advocates for a more cautious approach, emphasizing the need for enhanced oversight and reduced dependence on medication as the primary solution.
