Article type
Abstract
Amphetamines are widely used, both medically and recreationally, with notable implications for cardiovascular health. This systematic review evaluates the quantified impact of daily oral amphetamine use on blood pressure, heart rate, and withdrawal rates due to adverse effects in comparison to placebo in all age groups from randomized-controlled trials (RCTs). The study included different amphetamines such as racemic amphetamine, dextroamphetamine, mixed amphetamine salts, lisdexamphetamine dimesylate, methylenedioxymethamphetamine and methylphenidate. The Cochrane Hypertension Information Specialist (CIS) searched up till March 2023 across six domains with no language, publication year or publication status restrictions. Analyzing data from 56 randomized controlled trials encompassing 10,611 participants, we found that amphetamines significantly increase systolic and diastolic blood pressure, as well as heart rate, indicating a heightened risk for adverse cardiovascular events. Moreover, participants on amphetamines were more likely to withdraw due to adverse effects, highlighting the clinical importance of monitoring these outcomes. Our findings underscore the need for careful consideration in the prescribing and use of amphetamines, aiming to balance therapeutic benefits with potential cardiovascular risks. From all included studies (56 RCTs, n=10611 participants), amphetamines increased systolic blood pressure (SBP) by 2.0 mmHg (95% CI 1.6 - 2.4) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) by 1.9 mmHg (95% CI 1.6 - 2.2) (high certainty evidence for both). Amphetamines increased heart rate by 3.7 beats/min (95% CI 3.3 - 4.1) (high certainty evidence). These findings mean that people taking daily oral amphetamines are at increased risk of adverse cardiovascular events. Participants in the amphetamine group were also more likely to withdraw from the study due to adverse effects compared to the placebo group (RR 2.70 (95% CI 2.1 - 3.4) ARI = 4.6% (high certainty evidence). In patients receiving daily oral amphetamines, blood pressure, heart rate and withdrawals due to adverse effects are increased compared to placebo.