According to pioneering research across fish tanks to human genetics, a blood pressure drug that millions of people have safely treated ADHD could offer new hope for the treatment of ADHD. The discovery may provide a safer alternative to current ADHD drugs, which are often associated with side effects.
The study, published in neuropsychopharmacology, found that amlodipine, a widely prescribed blood pressure drug, reduced ADHD and impulsivity in a variety of test models. Most importantly, this study revealed for the first time that drugs can cross the blood-brain barrier, thus directly affecting brain function.
From fish to people: Building evidence
The international team first tested five potential drugs in specially cultured rats to show ADHD-like symptoms. Of all candidates, only amlodipine showed significant results in reducing hyperactive behavior.
To test these findings, the researchers turned to zebrafish—small swimmers share about 70% of the genes with humans. The results are convincing: The medication reduces ADHD and impulsivity, two core symptoms.
Genetic connection
The most fascinating findings of the study come from analyzing human genetic data. Researchers found that ADHD is associated with the same calcium channels in the brain of amlodipine targets. This genetic evidence provides crucial support for the potential effectiveness of the drug.
“Reusing amlodipine is a good blood pressure drug that provides a promising pathway to address ADHD symptoms,” said study co-author Matthew Parker of the University of Surrey. “Our Research shows that due to its existing approval and safety, amlodipine can be rapidly redeployed as a treatment option for ADHD, which may mitigate patient relief faster than developing new drugs.”
A safer option
Current ADHD drugs, while effective, often bring significant drawbacks. Side effects may include loss of appetite, high blood pressure, headaches, and sleep disorders. Perhaps the most worrying thing is their abusive potential. By contrast, amlodipine has been widely used and has good safety.
Given that approximately 25% of patients do not significantly improve existing ADHD medications, new treatment options are particularly urgently needed.
Real-world evidence
Analysis of UK patient data increased the weight of laboratory findings, indicating that people taking amlodipine reported less mood swings and reduced risk-taking behaviors – a common challenge for ADHD patients.
Looking to the future
Although these findings are promising, they represent early research. However, because Amlodipine is already FDA-approved and has a reliable safety record, the pathways for clinical use of ADHD may be much shorter than developing completely new drugs.
The study shows how existing drugs can lead to unexpected discovery in new ways. By repurposing a common cardiac drug, researchers may have found safer ways to manage symptoms of ADHD—a finding that could benefit millions of patients around the world.
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