Association between sleep pattern and pharmacological treatment in children with attention deficit disorder with hyperactivity: a systematic review

source extracted confidence: high 2026-04-09
#child #humans #attention-deficit-disorder-with-hyperactivity #atomoxetine-hydrochloride #central-nervous-system-stimulants

Association between sleep pattern and pharmacological treatment in children with attention deficit disorder with hyperactivity: a systematic review

Rocha et al., 2023 | Rev Paul Pediatr | Systematic Review

Citation

Rocha Nathalia Sena, Correa Rogério do Espírito Santo Amorim, ... Bueno Cláudia Dizioli Franco. Association between sleep pattern and pharmacological treatment in children with attention deficit disorder with hyperactivity: a systematic review. Rev Paul Pediatr. 2023;41:e2022065. doi:10.1590/1984-0462/2023/41/2022065

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to analyze the effect of the pharmacological treatment on the sleep patterns of children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). DATA SOURCE: A high-sensitivity electronic search was performed in the following databases: Cochrane Library, MEDLINE via PubMed, LILACS via the Regional Health Portal (BVS), Embase, Scopus, CINAHL, and Web of Science, as recommended by the Cochrane Handbook, and which has undergone peer review according to the PRESS Guide. DATA SYNTHESIS: The studies contemplated the use of the drugs atomoxetine, guanfacine, methylphenidate, dasotraline, L-theanine, and lisdexamfetamine. They showed efficiency in reducing the symptoms of ADHD, although all, except atomoxetine, affected sleep quality, such as by reducing total rapid eye movement (REM), non-REM phase, slow-wave sleep time, and longer sleep-onset latency. CONCLUSIONS: The drugs used in the treatment of ADHD seem to have negative repercussions on the sleep quality of children, with the drug atomoxetine showing lesser effects on this variable.

Key Findings

The drugs used in the treatment of ADHD seem to have negative repercussions on the sleep quality of children, with the drug atomoxetine showing lesser effects on this variable.

Outcomes Measured

  • sleep quality

Population

Field Value
Population See abstract
Sample Size See abstract
Age Range See abstract
Condition sleep

MeSH Terms

  • Child
  • Humans
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity
  • Atomoxetine Hydrochloride
  • Central Nervous System Stimulants
  • Methylphenidate
  • Sleep

Evidence Classification

  • Level: Systematic Review
  • Publication Types: Systematic Review, Journal Article
  • Vertical: l-theanine

Provenance

Source extracted via PubMed E-utilities API on 2026-04-09