International Journal of Molecular Sciences · 5 authors, 9 centres
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This narrative review discusses the high burden and bidirectional connection of ADHD in children with epilepsy, emphasizing that shared genetic and non-genetic factors make a chance association unlikely. It reviews evidence supporting stimulant effectiveness and safety for managing comorbid ADHD.
This narrative review examines the association between childhood epilepsy and comorbid ADHD. The paper discusses epidemiological data showing high comorbidity rates and explores proposed mechanisms, including bidirectional connections, shared genetic factors, and adrenergic system dysfunction. It highlights that ADHD adversely affects clinical outcomes and quality of life in these patients. The review summarizes evidence indicating stimulants are effective for comorbid ADHD and are supported as safe within approved doses, though it calls for more randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trials. The authors stress that comorbid ADHD is often under-recognized and that early identification and management are crucial for optimizing long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes. A key implication is that understanding shared genetic backgrounds may enable precision medicine approaches.
