Evaluation of Effect of Zinc plus Multivitamin in Children and Adolescents with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Treated with Methylphenidate

Abstract

Introduction: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a very common behavioral disorder among children, adolescent and adults. Stimulant drugs such as methylphenidate are the effective and first-line therapeutic options in management of the symptoms of this disorder. However, these drugs have side effects such as decreased appetite and reduced growth. We want to investigate the effects of zinc plus multivitamin on reduced appetite caused by methylphenidate in children with ADHD. Purpose: Effect of Zinc plus Multivitamin on Symptoms, Appetite and Anthropometric indices in Children and Adolescents with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Treated with Methylphenidate Methods: This clinical trial enrolled 100 patients with ADHD, aged between 6 to 12 years. The patients were randomly divided into two groups: a case group which received methylphenidate (0.5mg-1mg) and a zinc plus multivitamin supplement; and a control group which received only methylphenidate (0.5mg-1mg) for 12 weeks. Assessments, comprising the Conner’s Parent Questionnaire, anthropometric measurements, and appetite questionnaire, were conducted by a psychiatrist at baseline and then at 4, 8 and 12 weeks after the medication was started using repeated measure analysis. Results: Weight, height, the body mass index, and ADHD symptoms were not changed significantly during the study in both groups. Based on the results of study of appetite variable and P <0.005, it was found that concomitant use of multivitamin containing zinc with methylphenidate in the intervention group caused a significant improvement in appetite variables at the end of the study. Conclusion: It seems that Zinc plus multivitamins increase appetite in children with ADHD which may subsequently improve growth and weight gain.