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

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.