ADHD Medication and Pregnancy
Psychiatrists are often approached by women who are trying for an infant or are expecting, and are concerned about the effects of their ADHD medication. The good news is that research suggests that it is safe to take stimulant drugs throughout the pregnancy.
The results are based on naturalistic studies that included many first-trimester presentations.
Pregnancy
Pregnancy and a new baby are exciting times for women, however some women are concerned about the effect of their ADHD medication on their unborn child. The stimulant medications are known to have potential negative teratogenic effects. Some doctors recommend patients to stop taking their medication when trying to conceive or in the first trimester of pregnancy. Many people with ADHD require their medication to function and may struggle in this time without it.
A recent Danish study discovered that exposure to methylphenidate within the first trimester (in the form of a redeemed medication) did not seem to increase the risk of major malformations in comparison to the control group that didn't receive redeemed medications in the first trimester. The study used registry-based data from several Danish databases to identify pregnant women and their medications prior to and during pregnancy including information on whether the woman was being 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 of control and did not receive methylphenidate or any other stimulant medication during the first three months of pregnancy.
Both infant groups were assessed for neurodevelopmental psychiatric disorders, other neurodevelopmental impairments, growth impairments, and fetal heart issues (such as gastroschisis, omphalocele or transverse limb deficiency). The results showed that babies of women exposed to methylphenidate during pregnancy did not show increased rates of any of these disorders when as compared to control group. This was true for the first and second pregnancy trimesters.
This is a promising result that could be a source of comfort for pregnant women who take ADHD medication and might want or need to continue their treatment throughout the pregnancy. This study did not evaluate the impact of lifestyle changes or other medications on a foetus. Other studies have demonstrated that there is a link between stimulant medications and adverse pregnancy outcomes such as a caesarean delivery or a baby needing assistance to breathe at birth.
Breastfeeding
Even when women with ADD or ADHD require medication to manage their symptoms, they find that breastfeeding is beneficial for their child. The mother and baby must be well-nourished. Therefore the decision to breastfeed or take ADHD medications should be made with the assistance of a medical professional. The most current recommendations and evidence1 suggest that a woman does not need to discontinue breastfeeding to take her prescribed medication. 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 the most commonly used medication used to treat ADHD and include methylphenidate (with brand names Ritalin and Concerta) and dexamfetamine (brand name Vyvanse). They are available in two forms: immediate-release, that lasts for up to four hours; and extended release, which is taken daily in the morning and can last for up to sixteen hours. Many people who have ADD or ADHD find that the most effective way to manage their symptoms is to supplement the extended-release medication with an immediate-release pill in the evening or in the afternoon.
Certain medications are not suitable for breastfeeding, like Clonidine, which decreases prolactin secretion and decreases milk production. Some people suffering from ADD or ADHD are not able to stop breastfeeding for this reason, and instead opt to switch their medication to a different stimulant or a non-stimulant, like atomoxetine or guanfacine. These medications are less likely have high RIDs, and they may be covered under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme. It is essential to talk with a GP or a specialist if are considering changing your medication during breastfeeding, pregnancy, or early postpartum. They can give advice on the most secure medication and how to monitor the infant's weight and growth. They may also refer you to a psychiatrist or psychologist to provide additional assistance. They may also refer you to a dietitian to assist with managing nutrition and diet.
Postpartum
During pregnancy, women go through immense physical, hormonal and emotional changes in their physical, emotional and hormonal. non prescription adhd medication to motherhood can be a time of tremendous joy, excitement and affection, but also anger and anxiety for some women. This is normal and it's essential to seek assistance from relatives or her doctor, as well as mental health experts if the new mom is struggling.
It can be exciting to have a baby and it can also be overwhelming but a new mother should not feel like she has to do everything alone. Finding the right balance is difficult but it can be helped by allowing yourself to rest, getting enough sleep and eating well. You should also attend your postpartum check-ups as they can spot 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 normal occurrence that will usually subside by itself within a week or so. However for some, these feelings become much more serious and last longer than that. This is known as postpartum depression and is a medical condition that can be treated. If a woman had depression or anxiety before, she is at a greater risk of developing it following the birth of her child.
In a few instances women may suffer from postpartum psychosis, which is very dangerous for the mother and child. It is a psychiatric emergency and should be treated immediately. The treatment can include combination of medication and therapy. A therapist who has had experiences with this condition can be particularly helpful. If the symptoms are severe, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) might be suggested.
If mother suffering from an episode of postpartum psychosis, her doctor is likely to prescribe an antipsychotic medication like lithium or valproate, and an antidepressant such as citalopram. They might also suggest cognitive behavioral therapy to treat the root causes. Tricyclic antidepressants, such as imipramine and nortriptyline, are often prescribed, but they can cause serious side effects. They are usually only prescribed after other medications have failed.
Adolescence
Adolescence is an important time for cognitive, physical, and psychosocial development. Adolescence is an age of rapid growth in terms of cognitive, physical and psychosocial development. Adolescents begin to take an interest in expanding their social circle beyond just their family, to include peers, friends and acquaintances with whom they spend a significant amount of time at school or participating in other activities. Their social networks could also include members of team sports, student organizations or jobs.
As we grow older, changes in brain structure and connectivity can be correlated with increased experience, knowledge and social demands that change to create rapid cognitive growth. This includes an increase in selective and divided attention (the ability to concentrate on different stimuli simultaneously) working memory, as well as long-term memory. Additionally adolescents' ability to think abstractly and morally improves.
These cognitive changes are coupled with hormonal changes that cause adolescents to be more attracted to new and challenging experiences. Their hormones also cause them to look for experiences that improve their standing in the eyes of others. The desire to try new things can be utilized positively such as by taking part in a school play. It can also be used to take risks that are healthy like exploring sexual activity or other risk-taking behaviors in the event that they are in a safe and secure environment.
The differing levels of physical development can cause awkward stages in adolescence and anxiety or self-consciousness about the changes in their bodies. In certain cultures, like those of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, adolescence can be a time where young people find their place in relation to their clans, families and their communities, their ancestors, and their country.
Teens' relationships with their friends can be a source of comfort or conflict during this period. These relationships are crucial for adolescents' health and can significantly impact their happiness and well-being. The relationship of adolescents with their parents can also be a source of comfort, particularly when they are able to resolve family issues in a non-threatening manner.