ADHD Medication and Pregnancy
Psychiatrists are often approached by women who are trying to have a baby or are pregnant, and are concerned about the negative effects of their ADHD medication. The good news is that research suggests it is safe to take stimulant drugs throughout pregnancy.
The results are based on naturalistic studies which included many first-trimester expositions.
Pregnancy
Women are thrilled about the pregnancy and the birth of babies however, they are concerned about how their ADHD medication will affect their unborn child. These medications are known to have potential teratogenic effects and some physicians recommend patients to stop taking their medication when trying to conceive or during the first trimester of pregnancy. Many people suffering from ADHD require their medication in order to function and may struggle in this time without it.
A recent study in Denmark discovered that the exposure to methylphenidate during 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 redeemed during the first trimester of pregnancy. The study used registry-based information from several Danish databases to determine the number of pregnant women and their medications prior to and during pregnancy, including information on whether the woman was treated for ADHD.
The researchers followed a total of 898 babies born to mothers who were exposed to methylphenidate and other stimulants during the first trimester of pregnancy. They were compared to 1,270 babies who were part of the group of control and were not exposed to methylphenidate or any other stimulant medication in the first three months of pregnancy.
Both groups of infants were subjected to a comprehensive assessment for birth defects in the heart like gastroschisis and the omphalocele. The results revealed that infants born to women who were exposed to methylphenidate during pregnancy did not exhibit any higher rates compared with the controls. This was true for both the first and second trimesters of pregnancy.
This is a positive finding that can be comforting for women who are pregnant and take ADHD medication and might need or want to continue their treatment during pregnancy. It is important to note that this study did not examine the impact of other medications or lifestyle changes on a fetus and other studies have demonstrated an connection between the use of stimulants and adverse pregnancy outcomes, like having a caesarean delivery or the baby needing support to start breathing at the time of birth.
Breastfeeding
Even when women who suffer from ADD or ADHD require medication to manage their symptoms, they discover that breastfeeding benefits their baby. The mother and child should be healthy and well-nourished. Therefore the decision about whether to breastfeed or use ADHD medications should be taken with the help from a health professional. The most current guidelines and evidence1 suggest that women do not have to stop breastfeeding in order to take her prescribed medications. Multiple studies have shown that the neurodevelopmental impacts on the infant's health in the long run are not significant when the mother takes her ADHD medication 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 forms that lasts up to 4 hours, and extended-release forms which are taken twice a day in the morning, and can last for up to 16 hours. Many people who have ADD or ADHD find that the best way to combat their symptoms is to supplement the extended-release medication with immediate-release pills in the evening or in the afternoon.
Certain medications are not suitable for breastfeeding, like clonidine, a drug that reduces prolactin secretion and decreases milk production. Some people suffering from ADD and ADHD do not want to stop nursing for this reason, so they choose to switch to a different stimulant. inattentive adhd medication have lower RIDs and are more likely to be covered by the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme. It is important to speak with a GP and/or specialist if you are considering switching your medication during your pregnancy, breastfeeding or in the early postpartum period. They can provide you with guidance on the most safest medication and how to track your baby's weight and growth. The doctor or specialist may assist in referring to a psychiatrist or psychologist for further assistance. They can also refer you to a dietitian who can assist in nutrition and diet.
Postpartum
During pregnancy, women undergo immense physical, hormonal and emotional changes. For some women who are expecting, the transition can be a time of great joy, excitement and love, but also frustration and sadness, or even anxiety. This is normal, and it's crucial to seek support from relatives, her doctor and/or mental health experts if the mother is experiencing difficulties.
The birth of a child can be thrilling and overwhelming, however there's no reason the new mom should feel as if she must do it all alone. Finding the right balance can be difficult, but it can be helped by allowing yourself time to rest, taking enough sleep and eating well. You should also attend your postpartum check-ups, because they can identify any potential issues early.
Some women experience a brief period of anxiety or depression following the birth of their child, which is often referred to as the "baby blues." This is a common condition that will usually subside by itself within around a week. However for some, the symptoms become more severe and last longer than that. This is referred to as postpartum depression and is a medical condition that can be treated. If a woman has suffered from depression or anxiety in the past and is at a higher risk to develop the condition again after giving birth.
In rare instances, women can develop postpartum psychiasis. This can be extremely dangerous for both mother and child. adhd medication and pregnancy is a psychiatric crisis that needs to be addressed as soon as possible. Treatment can consist of a combination of medication and therapy. A therapist who has expertise in this condition can be extremely beneficial. If the symptoms are severe electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) might be suggested.
In the event of an episode of postpartum psychiasis that affects a mother who is pregnant, the doctor is likely to prescribe an antipsychotic like lithium or Valproate and an antidepressant such as citalopram. They may also suggest a course of cognitive behavioral therapy to address the underlying issues. Tricyclic antidepressants like nortriptyline and imipramine, are often prescribed, but they can cause serious side effects. They are typically prescribed if other medications have failed.
medication for inattentive adhd is a critical time of physical, cognitive and psychosocial growth. It requires a transition from dependency on parents to independence in making decisions and acting in the world around them. Adolescents are interested in expanding their social circle beyond the immediate family, to include their friends, peers and acquaintances. Their social networks also may include people from team sports, student organizations or even jobs.
In adolescence, the biological changes in brain connectivity and structure occur in conjunction with the increase in knowledge, experience, and changing social demands, resulting in rapid cognitive growth. This includes improvements in divided and selective attention (the ability to focus on a variety of stimuli simultaneously) working memory, as well as long-term memory. In addition adolescents' ability to think abstractly and morally improves.
These cognitive changes are accompanied by hormonal changes that makes adolescents more drawn to thrilling and exciting experiences. The hormones in their bodies also trigger them to seek out experiences that will improve their standing in the public's eyes. This desire to try new things can be used in a positive way, for example by participating in a school play. It is also a way to take healthy risk in exploring sexual behavior or other risky behaviors as long as they are in a safe and safe environment.
Variable rates of physical development may result in awkward phases of appearance in adolescence as well as feelings of self-consciousness or anxiety over the changes in their bodies. In some traditions, such as those of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, adolescents could be a time in which young people establish their identity in relation to their families, clans nations, ancestors, and country.
Teens' relationships with their friends can be a source of strength or conflict during this period. These relationships are essential for adolescents' health and can significantly impact their happiness and well-being. The relationships between adolescents and parents can be a great source of support for them, especially when they can resolve issues in a non-confrontational manner.