Sherlene Mcfadden

adhd medication pregnancy [Source Webpage] Medication During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding The decision to stop or keep ADHD medication during pregnancy and breastfeeding is a challenge for women suffering from the condition. Little data exists about how long-term exposure to these medications can affect the fetus. A study recently published in Molecular Psychiatry shows that children exposed to ADHD medication for inattentive adhd in the uterus do not develop neurological developmental disorders like hearing loss or impaired vision, febrile seizures, or IQ impairment. The authors acknowledge that more high quality studies are required. Risk/Benefit Analysis Pregnant women who use ADHD medications need to balance the advantages of using them against the risks to the foetus. Physicians don't have the data to provide clear recommendations but they can provide information on risks and benefits to assist pregnant women to make informed decisions. A study published in Molecular Psychiatry found that women who took ADHD medications during early pregnancy did not have a significantly increased risk of fetal heart malformations or major structural birth defects. Researchers used a vast population-based case-control study to determine the prevalence of major structural birth defects in infants born to mothers who had taken stimulants during early pregnancy, and those who did not. Clinical geneticists, pediatric cardiologists and other experts reviewed the cases in order to make sure that the classification was correct and to minimize any bias. The research conducted by the researchers was not without limitations. The researchers were unable, in the first place, to separate the effects triggered by the medication from the disorder. This makes it difficult to know whether the limited associations observed in the groups that were exposed are due to the use of medication or the confounding effect of comorbidities. The researchers also did not study long-term outcomes for the offspring. The study did reveal that babies whose mothers had taken ADHD medication during pregnancy were at a higher risk of being admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) than those whose mothers had not taken any medication or taken off their medication prior to or during pregnancy. The reason for this was central nervous system disorders. The higher risk of admission was not affected by the stimulant medication used during pregnancy. Women who used stimulant ADHD medication during pregnancy also had an increased chance of having a caesarean birth or having a child with a low Apgar score (less than 7). These risks did not seem to be influenced by the type of medication that was used during pregnancy. Researchers suggest that the small risks posed by the use of ADHD medications during early pregnancies can be offset by greater benefits for baby and mother of continued treatment for the woman's condition. Physicians should discuss this with their patients and, if possible, assist them in developing strategies to improve coping skills which can reduce the negative impact of her condition on her daily life and relationships. Interactions with Medication Doctors are increasingly confronted with the dilemma of whether to maintain treatment or stop it during pregnancy as more women are diagnosed with ADHD. Most of the time, these decisions are made without any evidence that is clear and definitive regardless, so doctors must weigh what they know about their experiences, the experiences of other doctors, and what the research suggests on the subject, along with their own judgments for each patient. Particularly, the subject of potential risks for the baby can be a challenge. A lot of studies on this issue are based on observational evidence rather than controlled research and their findings are often contradictory. The majority of studies focus on live births, which may underestimate the severity of teratogenic effects which can cause terminations or abortions of pregnancy. The study discussed in the journal club addresses these shortcomings, by examining both the data from deceased and live births. The conclusion: While some studies have shown an association between ADHD medications and the risk of certain birth defects, other studies have found no such relationship, and most studies show a neutral or even slightly negative impact. In every case it is imperative to conduct a thorough analysis of the potential risks and benefits must be performed. For many women with ADHD, the decision to discontinue medication can be difficult, if not impossible. In a recent article in Archives of Women's Mental Health by psychologist Jennifer Russell, she notes that stopping ADHD medications during pregnancy can lead to depression and feelings of being isolated. The loss of medication can also impact the ability to drive safely and to perform work-related tasks which are crucial aspects of daily life for those suffering from ADHD. She suggests that women who aren't sure whether to take the medication or stop due to pregnancy should educate family members, coworkers, and their friends about the condition, the impact on daily functioning and the benefits of continuing the current treatment plan. It can also help women feel supported in her decision. It is important to note that some medications are able to be absorbed through the placenta therefore, if a patient decides to discontinue her ADHD medication during pregnancy and breastfeeding, she must be aware that the effects of the medication could be transferred to the child. Birth Defects and Risk of As the use of ADHD medications to treat symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) grows as do concerns about the effects that the drugs could have on fetuses. Recent research published in the journal Molecular Psychiatry has added to the body knowledge on this issue. Researchers used two huge datasets to analyze more than 4.3 million pregnant women and determine whether stimulant medications increased birth defects. Researchers discovered that, while the risk overall is low, the first trimester ADHD exposure to medication was associated with slightly higher risk of specific heart defects such as ventriculoseptal defect. The authors of the study did not find any association between early use of medication and other congenital anomalies like facial deformities, or club feet. The findings are in line with previous studies revealing a small but significant increase in the risk of developing cardiac malformations among women who began taking ADHD medications prior to the time of pregnancy. The risk increased in the latter part of pregnancy when a large number of women began to stop taking their medication. Women who were taking ADHD medication during the first trimester were more likely to require a caesarean birth or have a low Apgar after delivery and have a baby that needed help breathing when they were born. However, the authors of the study were unable to eliminate bias due to selection by limiting the study to women who did not have other medical issues that could be a contributing factor to these findings. The researchers hope their study will serve to inform the clinical decisions of doctors who see pregnant women. The researchers recommend that while discussing benefits and risks are crucial, the decision about whether to continue or stop medication should be made according to the severity of each woman's ADHD symptoms and her needs. The authors also caution that even though stopping the medication is an alternative, it is not a recommended practice because of the high prevalence of depression and other mental health problems for women who are expecting or recently postpartum. Research has also shown that women who stop taking their medications will have a difficult time adjusting to a life without them once the baby is born. Nursing It can be a challenge to become a mom. Women who suffer from ADHD who must work through their symptoms while attending physician appointments, preparing for the arrival of a baby and adjusting to new household routines are often faced with a number of difficulties. Many women choose to continue taking their ADHD medication during pregnancy. The risk to nursing infant is low because the majority of stimulant medication is absorbed through breast milk at a low level. The rate of medication exposure will differ based on dosage and frequency of administration as well as the time of day. Additionally, different medications enter the infant's system differently through the gastrointestinal tract as well as breast milk and the impact of this on a newborn is not well understood. Some doctors may stop taking stimulant medication during a woman’s pregnancy due to the absence of research. This is a complicated decision for the patient, who must balance the benefits of keeping her medication against the potential dangers to the embryo. As long as more information is available, GPs may inquire about pregnant patients whether they have a history of ADHD or if they are planning to take medication in the perinatal period. Numerous studies have proven that women can continue taking their ADHD medication without risk while breastfeeding and during pregnancy. This has led to an increasing number of patients opt to do this and, after consulting with their doctor, they have discovered that the benefits of continuing their current medication far outweigh any potential risks. Women with ADHD who are planning to nurse should seek advice from an expert psychiatrist prior to becoming pregnant. They should review their medications with their doctor and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of continuing treatment, including non-pharmacological management strategies. Psychoeducation is also needed to help pregnant women suffering from ADHD understand the symptoms and underlying disorder. They should also be informed about treatment options and build coping mechanisms. This should be a multidisciplinary process with the GPs, obstetricians and psychiatrists. Pregnancy counseling should include a discussion of a treatment plan for the mother and the child, monitoring of signs of deterioration, and, if needed adjustments to the medication regimen.

ADHD Medications and Other Treatments ADHD can cause a broad spectrum of symptoms that can cause people to be unable to perform at a high level at work or school. The problem could be incorrectly diagnosed. Psychotherapy, which includes cognitive behavioral therapy, may help adults with adhd no medication learn better ways of thinking and reacting to stress. Regular exercise and a balanced diet can also aid. Medications Many people don't like to think about taking medication but the right medicine can make a huge difference. ADHD medications boost brain chemicals that affect attention, concentration and impulse control. Doctors recommend them initially in small doses, and then increase them gradually until strongest adhd medication symptoms improve. Regular checks are recommended for those taking ADHD medications to determine if they are working and to track any adverse effects. Stimulants are the most popular treatment for ADHD. They are taken orally and are available in a variety of forms. They include tablets that can be chewed, swallowed whole, or dissolving into capsules that can be sprayed over food items; and liquids that can be mixed with water or swallowed. Most people take these medicines once a day. The most commonly used stimulants are methylphenidate (brand names include Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines (Adderall, Dexedrine and Vyvanse). Both stimulants work by stimulating certain areas of the brain to improve concentration and decrease impulse-driven behavior. They are typically prescribed to children over the age of 5, but can be given to teenagers and adults who haven't been able to respond to other treatments. Other kinds of medicines are also used to treat ADHD however, they are less commonly used in children due to the possibility of undesirable or harmful adverse effects. Monoamine oxide inhibitors are antidepressants that can help with ADHD by boosting the levels of brain chemicals norepinephrine and serotonin. They are used only if other treatments are not working. However they have been linked with a variety of deaths due to heart rhythm problems. The most well-known monoamine oxidase inhibitor is phenelzine (Nardil). Venlafaxine is a newer form of this drug that has been shown to treat ADHD in a small number of patients, but it is not studied as extensively. Children and adults alike may experience symptoms similar to ADHD. These include mood disorders (such as anxiety), adjustment disorders, and personality disorders. Antisocial personality disorder is a common personality disorder among adults suffering from ADHD. If a patient suffers from co-occurring ADHD with other psychiatric disorders or symptoms, doctors will first treat the most severe symptoms before they prescribe medication for ADHD. Alternative Treatments Many people suffering from ADHD do not find medications beneficial, and they may look for alternative treatments. These are generally considered alternative or complementary medicine (CAM). This includes certain nutritional supplements, foods and exercise, sleep training and meditation, yoga, and neurofeedback, a brain-based treatment. These therapies are a great supplement to any ADHD treatment program. Many people with ADHD believe that certain food items increase their symptoms. In general, a well-balanced diet is recommended. Many experts recommend keeping a food diary to see if any particular foods trigger symptoms. If someone notices that their ADHD symptoms get better or worse following eating certain foods It is crucial to discuss this with a physician who might suggest consulting a dietitian. Some people with ADHD notice that they feel better when they take certain vitamins or supplements. There isn't much evidence to suggest that these supplements work. Before you try any of these supplements it's recommended to talk to your doctor in case they interfere with certain medicines. Regular exercise is beneficial to everyone, but particularly for those suffering from ADHD. Research has shown that moderate intensity exercise can help the brain release chemicals that control attention and behavior. It is most effective to exercise outdoors, away from televisions, computers, and video games. A behavioral therapy is another treatment that doesn't require medication. This helps to teach new ways of being and is usually best for children under five. It can be helpful for older children as well as adults. It is typically coupled with cognitive behavior therapy, which is aimed at changing negative thoughts and beliefs. A type of therapy for behavior called sensory integration training is designed to teach the brain how to respond to sensory signals, such as seeing, hearing and touching. This is a relatively young treatment and more research is required. It's worth a try, particularly if a person with ADHD also suffers from mental health issues. Counseling Some people suffering from ADHD find relief from depression and anxiety by seeking psychotherapy, which is offered by trained therapists or in an entire group. Therapy for talking, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can aid you in managing your issues and manage stress. CBT for instance helps you overcome negative or irrational thoughts such as "I always make mistakes" or "this will not work." In addition to counseling, there are other options for treating adhd that do not require medication, such as establishing healthy sleeping habits, addressing nutritional deficiencies, and getting regular exercise. You should consult your doctor before trying to eliminate any food or supplements. You can also get help from self-help groups and support groups. These groups can assist you deal with a range types of adhd medication issues, including managing relationships, anxiety or low self-esteem. These services may be offered in person over the phone, in person or online. A lot of these services are offered for free or cost a small amount. Behavioral therapy can be an excellent option for children who have ADHD. It can also be beneficial for teenagers and adults. In a behavioral therapy session, you and your child are helped by a trained counselor to devise strategies that can help to reduce the symptoms of ADHD and improve the overall functioning of your family. For instance, the therapist might teach you how to utilize positive reinforcement and reward systems. You and your child can also learn from a therapist to calm yourself down when you observe signs. This is particularly useful for parents who are overwhelmed by the impulsive behaviors of their children. Therapists may also suggest instructing you and your child in relaxation techniques, including meditation, progressive muscle relaxation, visualization and deep breathing. The behavioral therapy program can also include training for teachers to help them to assist students with ADHD. For example, the therapy therapist could instruct you on using "report cards" to inform teachers that your child has fulfilled the behavior goals set by him or her at school that day. The therapist can then reward him for his good behavior. Research suggests that these kinds of programs can greatly increase the capacity of children and adults suffering from ADHD to function in their everyday lives. Support Groups Adults with ADHD can find it difficult to understand their symptoms and behaviors which can be a challenge. Support groups can help adults with ADHD find understanding and encouragement by others who share similar experiences. They can also learn new coping skills and strategies to improve their lives. Some support groups are led by professionals, whereas others are peer-led. Some offer workshops, educational materials, and guest speakers. In addition support groups can provide a space that allows members to connect and collaborate with others to share resources. Online support groups are a great alternative for those who are unable to meet in person. ADDitude magazine, for example offers an online forum that allows users to exchange ideas and interact. The site also offers a list of professional ADHD coaches and other sources. You can also find online ADHD support groups through your health insurance or websites which offer mental health services. Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), for example could cover therapy and counseling for those suffering from mental health issues like ADHD. Other sources of support from social networks include friends and family. Inform those closest to you that you suffer from ADHD so they can offer more support and help with everyday tasks. For instance, an ADHD spouse could help with meal preparation or cleaning, and an acquaintance could be an excellent listener when you're feeling overwhelmed. Choose a reputable group if you're thinking about joining an ADHD support group. Be wary of forums on social media sites that allow anyone to post. The advice offered in these forums may not be consistent with medical guidelines and could be harmful or inaccurate. In the end, support groups should be considered as part of a treatment program that includes therapy, medication, and skills training.

How to Choose the Best ADHD Medication for Adults With Anxiety and Depression If someone has ADHD and depression or anxiety treating one condition usually improves the other. Mental health professionals prescribe antidepressants, stimulants for depression, or antidepressants, along with ADHD medication. Wellbutrin (bupropion) and Effexor (venlafaxine) are the most frequently used antidepressants prescribed "off-label" for ADHD. These medications increase levels of neurotransmitters like norepinephrine and dopamine and help improve concentration. 1. Methylphenidate Methylphenidate is the top choice medication for adults with ADHD, anxiety, or depression. It's part of a class of medications called central nervous system stimulants. It is a drug that alters the amount of certain natural substances within your brain. It is available as a liquid, chewable tablet or an extended-release capsule. It can also be administered via the skin. It is not uncommon for people with ADHD to have co-occurring mood disorders like depression or anxiety. It is essential to inform your doctor if suffer from depression or anxiety because some medications, especially stimulants can cause them to get worse. In certain instances you may have to take both an anti-anxiety medication and a stimulant medication. Methylphenidate may cause adverse effects, including headaches and stomachaches. It can also increase your heart rate and blood pressure, so you should keep regular appointments with your doctor to check these. It may also trigger facial ticks (uncontrollable rapid movements of the face). People suffering from phenylketonuria (a genetic condition) who have trouble metabolizing the phenylalanine drug should not take it. It is also dangerous to use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. You should tell your doctor if you plan to become pregnant. When taking methylphenidate, you should not operate a vehicle or operate machinery. It may cause dizziness and blurred vision. It is vital to drink enough fluids while you are taking it. If you have problems swallowing tablets, ask your doctor about extended-release capsules, or orally disintegrating tablets. It is not recommended to chew or crush these medications therefore, if you experience difficulties eating solid food consult your physician about liquid medicine that can be mixed with soft foods or drinks like applesauce, yogurt or pudding. 2. Lisdexamfetamine Lisdexamfetamine is a drug within the central nervous system stimulant family. It works by altering the amount of certain natural substances in the brain. It is used to treat ADHD in adults and children 6 years of age and over. It is also used to treat binge-eating disorders in adults. Adults with adhd medication cost frequently suffer from anxiety and depression. Treatment of these conditions is crucial to make people feel better and do their best at work and home. Certain drugs used to treat mental conditions may interact negatively with ADHD medication. It is crucial to be open about any other medical issues. Depression and anxiety are both complex conditions, since they can trigger many symptoms. Antidepressants such as Wellbutrin, Effexor, or Venlafaxine are commonly prescribed to treat these conditions. They can also improve concentration and focus in people who suffer from adhd medication guide or ADHD. They typically work by increasing the amount of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, and have a low risk of misuse and abuse. In studies of LDX in adults suffering from ADHD and depression or anxiety, the medication showed promising results. It helped improve ADHD ratings as well as executive function and ADHD ratings. It was also safe to use. It is important to tell your doctor if taking any other medication that include MAO inhibitors like isocarboxazid (Marplan) or linezolid (Zyvox) as well as the methylene blue, Phenelzine (Nardil), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam, Zelapar), and the tranylcypromine (Parnate). These medicines are not recommended to be taken within 14 days after lisdexamfetamine. Tell your doctor if you have an allergy to lisdexamfetamine or any of the other ingredients in this medication. 3. Atomoxetine Atomoxetine, also called Strattera is a non-stimulant ADHD medication used to treat depression. It is believed to work by blocking the reuptake process of the neurotransmitter norepinephrine. By increasing the levels of this chemical in the brain, the drug increases alertness and reduces anxiety and depressive symptoms. It is important to remember that this medication is not recommended as a standalone treatment for anxiety disorders. Instead it is recommended that an individual receives treatment from a certified psychotherapist or psychiatrist. Numerous studies have been conducted to evaluate the effects of atomoxetine on patients with ADHD and comorbid anxiety disorders. These studies include 9 randomized controlled trials and two post-hoc subgroup studies. In the majority of cases, both symptom improvement and cognition function were more accurately measured with atomoxetine than placebo. However, it is important to remember that the overall size of the study was limited. Some side effects of this medication include abdominal pain as well as rapid heart rate. These side effects are usually minimal and are not observed in everyone who takes the medication. Some people who use Atomoxetine have expressed thoughts of suicide. These thoughts were observed in short-term clinical trials of adolescents and children taking the drug. However, suicides did not occur in these trials. As with stimulants, atomoxetine is also effective in treating comorbid anxiety/ADHD. In fact in an earlier study of people suffering from ADHD and social anxiety disorder, atomoxetine performed better than an placebo. This is a promising result that suggests that this drug could be effective in treating ADHD and anxiety when paired with other treatments. Further research is needed to determine if the atomoxetine medication can be used effectively for other types of anxiety disorders that are comorbid. 4. Bupropion Bupropion, a drug that is not stimulant, boosts the chemical noradrenaline within the brain. This chemical passes messages between brain cells and increasing it can aid concentration and control of impulses. Your doctor might recommend this medication in capsule form which is usually taken one or twice daily. It's also associated with some more serious side effects, like suicidal thoughts and liver damage. Anxiety is a disorder that causes intense, persistent fear and restlessness. It can cause symptoms such as headaches, stomachaches and breath shortness, and emotions like anxiety or dread. Many people with anxiety disorders struggle to manage their symptoms, despite trying to reduce them. People suffering from ADHD can experience anxiety, and. The condition can cause emotional and relationship problems and low self-esteem. Signs of untreated ADHD like the inability to pay attention, forgetfulness, and impulsive behavior -- can also lead to feelings of disappointment or failure. Non-stimulants such as atomoxetine Qelbree and Lisdexamfetamine (methylphenidate) can also assist in easing anxiety symptoms. High blood pressure medications like clonidine (Kapvay) and guanfacine (Intuniv, Tenex) may also be used for ADHD in adults, although these drugs work differently than stimulants. Antidepressants can be prescribed by your doctor to treat ADHD. They may be prescribed on their own or together with stimulants. However they are rarely prescribed to adolescents and children. Psychotherapy is a third treatment option. Consulting with a mental-health professional can be beneficial in treating anxiety as well as ADHD. Changes in your lifestyle and routine can help manage these conditions. For instance, you can try yoga or meditation or managing insomnia and stress and incorporating physical exercise in your daily routine. 5. Tricyclic antidepressants A mental health professional may suggest antidepressants as part of your treatment. These medications aren't FDA approved to treat ADHD however they can help improve anxiety and depression symptoms if used in conjunction along with stimulants. Antidepressants increase serotonin levels as well as norepinephrine production in the brain. They therefore can help to reduce anxiety as well as depressive symptoms. Selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors -like fluoxetine (Prozac), citalopram (Celexa) and escitalopram (Lexapro) -boost the levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin to lift your mood and decrease anxiety. Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors -- such as mirtazapine (Remeron) and nefazodone (Serzone) -- also lift your mood by increasing the amount of norepinephrine and serotonin that your brain's chemical messengers release. Tricyclic antidepressants, so named after the three rings of their chemical structure, were first created as antipsychotics but were later discovered to possess powerful antidepressant properties. These include amitriptyline imipramine and nortriptyline. Tricyclics can also improve sleep, reduce blood pressure and reduce the sensitivity of a person to sound. They can cause drowsiness, so people who are taking them should stay away from driving or operating equipment that is dangerous until they know how they'll react to the medication. Exercise, getting enough rest, and eating a diet that is rich in vegetables, fruits and whole grains can all aid in reducing ADHD and anxiety symptoms. Mindfulness and other forms of therapy like cognitive behavior therapy, can also help to reduce stress. If you're struggling to manage your anxiety and ADHD, Klarity can connect you with licensed professionals for easy, cost-free online mental health services. Find out more information and make an appointment today.