ADHD Medication and Pregnancy
Psychiatrists are often approached by women who are trying for a baby or are pregnant, and are concerned about the effects of their ADHD medication. The good news is that Research suggests that, in the end it is safe to continue taking stimulant medication during pregnancy.
The research is based on naturalistic studies that included an abundance of first-trimester expository sessions.
Pregnancy
Pregnancy and a new baby are exciting for women, but some can worry about the impact of their ADHD medication on their child who is yet to be born. Some physicians recommend to their patients to quit taking stimulant drugs during pregnancy or when trying to get pregnant. However, many people with ADHD require the advantages of their medication to perform in everyday life and may struggle without it during this time.
A recent Danish study found that exposure to methylphenidate during the first trimester (in the form a redeemed medication) did not seem to increase the risk of developing major malformations in comparison to the control group who did not receive redeemed medications during the first trimester. The study used registry-based information from several Danish databases to determine the number of pregnant women and their medical history before and during pregnancy, including information on whether the woman was treated for ADHD.
Researchers observed 898 babies whose mothers had been exposed to methylphenidate and other stimulants during the first trimester. They were compared with 1,270 babies who were in the group that did not receive methylphenidate, or any other stimulant medication during the first three months of pregnancy.
Both groups of babies were examined for neurodevelopmental psychiatric disorders, other neurodevelopmental impairments growth impairments, as well as fetal heart problems (such as gastroschisis, omphalocele, and transverse limb deficiency). The results found that the infants of women exposed to methylphenidate in utero did not show increased rates of any of these conditions as compared to control group. This was true both for the first and second trimesters.
This is a positive result that can comfort pregnant women who are taking ADHD medication and who may wish or require treatment throughout pregnancy. It is important to understand that this study did not examine the effects of other medications or lifestyle changes on a fetus and other studies have revealed an association between stimulant medication use and adverse outcomes during pregnancy, for example having a caesarean delivery or the baby needing assistance to breathe upon birth.
best adhd medication for adults when women with ADD or ADHD need to take medication to control their symptoms, they realize that breastfeeding helps their baby. The mother and baby must be healthy and well-nourished. Therefore the decision to breastfeed or take ADHD medications should be taken with the help of a medical professional. Based on the most recent guidelines and evidence1 that a woman does not need to stop breastfeeding to take her prescribed medication. Numerous studies have proven that long-term neurodevelopmental effects for the baby are not significant when the mother is taking her ADHD medications according to the prescription.
Stimulants are the most commonly used medication used to treat ADHD, including methylphenidate (with brand names Ritalin and Concerta) and dexamfetamine (brand name Vyvanse). They are available in immediate-release versions that lasts up to four hours, and extended-release formulations that are taken every day in the morning, and can last for up to 16 hours. Many people with ADD or ADHD find the best way to treat their symptoms is to take extended-release medications in the afternoon or evening and then supplement it with a tablet that is immediate-release.
Some medications, such as Clonidine, reduce prolactin production and are incompatible with breastfeeding. Some people with ADD and ADHD aren't ready to stop nursing for this reason, so they change to a different stimulant medication. These medications have lower RIDs and are more likely to be covered by the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme. If you are considering changing your medication during pregnancy or nursing, it is important to talk to an GP or a specialist. They can give advice on the most safest medication to use and the best way to monitor your baby's weight and growth. They can also refer you a psychiatrist or psychologist for further assistance. They may also refer you a dietitian to assist with managing nutrition and diet.
Postpartum
During pregnancy, women go through immense physical, hormonal and emotional changes. For some women who are expecting, the transition can bring feelings of excitement, joy and love but also frustration, sadness or anxiety. This is normal and it is important that the mother receives support from loved ones as well as her health care provider, and/or an expert in mental health when she is struggling.
Having a baby can be exciting and a little overwhelming but there's no reason mothers should feel like she must do it all alone. Finding the balance can be difficult however, you can assist yourself by taking time to rest and sleep. It is also essential to attend your postpartum checkups, as they can identify any potential issues early.
Some women may experience a brief moment of depression or anxiety following the birth of their child. This is called the "baby blues." adhd medication online is a normal occurrence that tends to go away on its own within a week or so. However for some, these feelings can become more serious and last longer. This is known as postpartum depression, and is a treatable illness. If a woman had anxiety or depression in the past and is at a higher risk to develop it again after giving birth.
In certain instances women can develop postpartum psychosis that is very dangerous for the mother and child. It is a psychiatric crisis and should be treated immediately. The treatment may include a combination therapy and medication. A therapist who has lived experience with this illness can be particularly helpful. If the symptoms are severe electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) might be suggested.
If mother suffering from postpartum psychosis, the doctor will probably prescribe an antipsychotic medication such as lithium or valproate, and an antidepressant such as citalopram. They may also recommend a course of cognitive behavioural therapy to treat the root causes. Tricyclic antidepressants like imipramine and nortriptyline, are sometimes prescribed but can have serious side effects. They are typically prescribed if other drugs have failed.
Adolescence
Adolescence is a critical time of cognitive, physical and psychosocial growth. It is a time of transition from dependence on parents to a sense of independence when making decisions and taking action in the world around them. Adolescents become interested in expanding their social circle beyond their immediate family members to include their friends, peers, and acquaintances. Their social network may also include people from student organizations as well as team sports or jobs.
During adolescence, biological changes in brain structure and connectivity are interacted with increased experience, knowledge and the changing demands of society to produce rapid cognitive growth. This includes improvements in selective and divided focus (the ability of focusing on multiple stimuli at the same time) as well as working memory and long-term memory. Additionally, adolescents' ability to think abstractly and morally improves.
These cognitive changes are accompanied by hormonal changes, which make adolescents more attracted by novel and intense experiences. The hormones in their bodies also trigger them to seek out experiences that elevate their status in the public's eyes. The desire to explore new experiences can be used to benefit others such as by taking part in a school production. It is also a good way to take risks that are healthy for example, like exploring sexual activities or other risky behavior in the event that they are in a safe and secure environment.
The various rates of physical growth can cause awkward stages in adolescence and anxiety or self-consciousness about the changes in their bodies. In some traditions, such as those of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, adolescents could be a time where young people establish their place with their families, clans and nations, as well as their ancestors, tribes, and country.
Relationships between teens and their friends could be a source of support or conflict. The quality of these relationships is crucial for the wellbeing of adolescents and is an important element in their wellbeing and happiness. The relationship of adolescents with parents can also be a significant source of support, especially when they are able to resolve family problems together in a non-confrontational way.