What Routine Tests Are Needed While Taking ADHD Medications?

PostedSeptember 22, 2025

UpdatedSeptember 22, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Avery Lombardi, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Regular monitoring through ADHD medication routine tests is an important part of safe treatment. These tests help ensure the medication is working effectively and does not cause unwanted side effects. While most people tolerate ADHD medication well, routine checks allow healthcare providers to spot any emerging issues early.

Blood Pressure and Heart Monitoring

One of the most common routine checks involves blood pressure checks and heart monitoring, especially when taking stimulant medications like Adderall or Ritalin. These medications can slightly raise heart rate and blood pressure, so it’s important to track cardiovascular health, particularly in those with pre-existing conditions.

Weight and Growth Tracking

In children and adolescents, monitoring height and weight is essential. Stimulants can sometimes suppress appetite, which may affect growth if not carefully managed. Regular weight checks help ensure children continue to develop at a healthy rate while on medication.

Mental Health and Sleep Assessments

Since ADHD medications can impact mood, sleep, and anxiety levels, routine assessments should include questions about emotional wellbeing and sleep quality. These conversations help adjust treatment as needed and identify any new mental health concerns.

Optional and Specialist Tests

Occasionally, an electrocardiogram (ECG) might be recommended, particularly if there is a personal or family history of heart conditions. Blood tests are not typically required for ADHD medication but may be used to rule out other conditions or monitor specific concerns in rare cases.

In conclusion, ADHD medication routine tests like blood pressure monitoring, growth tracking, and mental health check-ins help keep treatment safe and effective over time.

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and expert guidance tailored to your unique situation.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Medications for ADHD.

Avery Lombardi, MSc

Author

Avery Lombardi is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor’s in Psychology. She has professional experience in psychological assessment, evidence-based therapy, and research, working with both child and adult populations. Avery has provided clinical services in hospital, educational, and community settings, delivering interventions such as CBT, DBT, and tailored treatment plans for conditions including anxiety, depression, and developmental disorders. She has also contributed to research on self-stigma, self-esteem, and medication adherence in psychotic patients, and has created educational content on ADHD, treatment options, and daily coping strategies.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.