Heat Stroke in a Young Athlete With Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder on Stimulant Medication

TL;DR

A young athlete with ADHD on stimulant medication suffered heat stroke, highlighting the risks of such medications during intense physical activity.

Contribution

This case report highlights the potential risk of heat stroke in ADHD patients taking stimulant medications during physical exertion.

Findings

A young athlete with ADHD on Adderall experienced heat stroke.

Stimulant medication may contribute to heat stroke in physically active individuals.

Heat stroke remains a leading cause of sudden death in young athletes.

Abstract

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that significantly impair daily functioning and quality of life. Although often diagnosed in childhood, ADHD symptoms frequently persist into adolescence and adulthood. Heat stroke, a severe medical condition characterized by central nervous system dysfunction, seizures, and extreme hyperthermia, can result in mortality even with medical intervention. Notably, exertional heat stroke remains a leading cause of sudden death among young athletes and individuals engaged in strenuous physical activity. We present a case of a young athlete diagnosed with ADHD and prescribed amphetamine and dextroamphetamine (Adderall), who presented with heat stroke, partly due to his medication.

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