types of adhd medication I Am Psychiatry and Pregnancy
Psychiatrists frequently encounter women who are trying to conceive or who are pregnant and concerned about the impact of their ADHD medication on the baby. The good news is that research suggests it is safe to take stimulant medications during pregnancy.
The findings are based on naturalistic studies using a vast number of exposures to the first trimester.
Pregnancy
Pregnancy and the birth of a child are exciting for women, but many are concerned about the impact of their ADHD medication on their unborn child. These medications are known to cause adverse teratogenic consequences and some doctors advise patients to discontinue their medication when trying to conceive or during the first trimester of pregnancy. Many people with ADHD need their medication in order to function and can be a struggle with it without it.
A recent study in Denmark found that exposure to methylphenidate in the first trimester (in the form of a prescription redeemed) does not appear to increase risk of major malformations compared to a group that did not have prescriptions that were redeemed in the first trimester of pregnancy. The study utilized registry-based data from various Danish databases to determine the number of pregnant women and their medication history prior to and during pregnancy including information about whether the woman was being treated for ADHD.
The researchers followed 898 babies born to mothers exposed to methylphenidate or other stimulants in the initial trimester of pregnancy. They were compared with 1,270 babies in the control group who were not exposed to stimulant medication or methylphenidate in the first trimester pregnancy.
Both groups of babies underwent an extensive examination for abnormalities in the fetal heart like gastroschisis or Omphalocele. The results showed that babies born to women who were exposed to methylphenidate during pregnancy did not exhibit any higher rates compared with the controls. This was the case for both the first and second trimesters of pregnancy.
This is a positive result that can comfort pregnant women who take ADHD medication and may want or require treatment throughout their pregnancy. It is important to remember that the study did not evaluate the impact of other medications or lifestyle changes on the fetus and other studies have revealed an correlation between the use of stimulant medications and adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as having a caesarean delivery, or the baby needing assistance to breathe upon birth.
Breastfeeding
Even when women who suffer from ADD or ADHD require medication to control their symptoms, they discover that breastfeeding benefits their baby. It is crucial that both the mother and baby are well-nourished, and the decision to breastfeed or take ADHD medication should be taken in consultation with a medical professional. The most up-to-date guidelines and evidence1 suggest women do not need to stop breastfeeding to take her prescribed medications. In fact, numerous studies have demonstrated that the long-term neurodevelopmental effects of the baby are not significant when the mother is taking her ADHD medications as prescribed.
Stimulants are among the most popular medication used to treat ADHD and include methylphenidate (with brand names Ritalin and Concerta) and dexamfetamine (brand name Vyvanse). They are available in immediate-release form that lasts up to four hours and extended-release formulations that are taken every day in the morning. They may last up to 16 hours. Many people suffering from ADD or ADHD find the best way to manage symptoms is to take extended-release medications in the evening or afternoon, and then supplement it with a tablet that is immediate-release.
Some medications, such as Clonidine, decrease prolactin production and are not compatible with breastfeeding. Some people suffering from ADD and ADHD aren't ready to stop breastfeeding for this reason, and so they switch to a different stimulant medication. These medications are less likely to have high RIDs, and they may be covered under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme. If you're thinking of changing your medication during pregnancy or breastfeeding it is crucial to speak with a GP or a specialist. They can provide you with advice on the safest medication and how to track the growth of your infant and its weight. They can also refer you a psychiatrist or psychologist to provide additional assistance. They can also refer you to a dietitian for help with diet and nutrition.
Postpartum
During pregnancy, women undergo massive physical, hormonal, and emotional changes in their physical, emotional and hormonal. For some women experiencing the transition to motherhood can be a time of great excitement, joy and love but also frustration or sadness. This is normal and it is important that the new mother gets assistance from her family, her health care provider, and/or an expert in mental health if she is experiencing difficulties.
It's thrilling to be a parent, but it can also be overwhelming but a new mother shouldn't feel that she must take on everything by herself. Finding the balance isn't easy but you can help yourself by taking time to rest and sleep. You should also go to your postpartum check-ups as they can spot any issues that could be present early.
Some women experience a brief period of depression or anxiety following the birth of their child. This is often referred to as the "baby blues." It is a common condition and will usually disappear on its own within about a week or two. Certain people experience symptoms that are more severe and last for longer. This is called postpartum depressive disorder and is a treatable condition. If a woman has had depression or anxiety before, she is at an increased risk of developing it after the birth of her baby.
In some cases women can develop postpartum psychosis, which is extremely risky for the mother and child. It is a psychiatric crisis and must be treated immediately. The treatment may include a combination therapy and medication. A therapist who has experience with this illness can be very beneficial. If the symptoms are severe electroconvulsive (ECT) therapy may be suggested.
In the case of a mother experiencing postpartum psychosis will probably prescribe an antipsychotic medication like lithium or valproate as well as a mood stabilizer such as citalopram. They may also recommend cognitive behavioral therapy to treat the root cause of the problem. Tricyclic antidepressants, such as nortriptyline or imipramine are often employed, but they can cause adverse side effects that are difficult to manage and are generally only prescribed if other medications have not been effective.
Adolescence
Adolescence is a crucial time for cognitive, physical, and psychosocial growth. It requires a transition from dependence on parents to independence in making decisions and deciding how to act in the world around them. Adolescents develop an interest in expanding their social circles from just their family to include friends, peers and acquaintances with whom they spend a significant amount of time at school or in other activities. Their social networks could also include people from team sports, student groups or even jobs.
In adolescence, the biological changes in brain structure and connectivity interact with a growing amount of knowledge, experience and the changing demands of society to produce rapid cognitive growth. This includes improvements in divided and selective attention (the ability to concentrate on different stimuli simultaneously) as well as working memory and long-term memory. Furthermore, the ability of adolescents of thinking abstractly and morally also improves.
These cognitive changes are accompanied by hormonal changes, which make teenagers more attracted to exciting and new experiences. Their hormones also cause them to seek out experiences that will elevate their status in the opinions of others. This drive toward new experiences can be harnessed in positive ways, such as by taking part in a school play or becoming involved in a community service activity. It is possible to take risks that are healthy, such as exploring sexuality or other risky behavior, provided they are in a safe and secure environment.
Different rates of physical development may result in awkward phases of appearance during adolescence, and also feelings of self-consciousness or anxiety about their body changes. In certain cultures, like those of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, adolescence can be a period when young people are able to establish their identity within their families, clans, their nations as well as their ancestors and their country.
Relationships between teens and their friends can either be a source for support or conflict. These relationships are crucial for adolescents' health and can be a major influence on their happiness and wellbeing. The relationships between adolescents and their parents can be an excellent source of assistance for them, especially if they are able to work out problems in a non-confrontational manner.