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 effects of their ADHD medication. The good news is that Research suggests that, on balance it is safe to continue taking stimulant medication during pregnancy.
non stimulant adhd medication are based on naturalistic studies with a large number of exposures to the first trimester.
Pregnancy
Women are thrilled about the having a baby and expecting the baby, but they may worry about how their ADHD medication affects their child's future. Some doctors advise their patients to not take stimulant medication during pregnancy or when trying to have a baby. However, many people with ADHD require the benefits of their medication in order to be able to function in their daily lives and may be unable to function without it during this period.
A recent study in Denmark found that first trimester exposure to methylphenidate (in the form of a prescription redeemed) does not appear to increase the risk of major malformations when compared to a control group without redeemed prescriptions in the first trimester of pregnancy. The study used registry information from Danish databases to identify pregnant women and their medical history, including whether they were treated for ADHD.
Researchers observed 898 babies whose mothers had been exposed to methylphenidate and other stimulants in 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 in the first three months of pregnancy.
Both groups of infants were subjected to an extensive assessment of birth defects in the heart like gastroschisis or omphalocele. The results revealed that babies of women who were exposed to methylphenidate while in utero did not have higher rates of any of these conditions when contrasted with the subjects. This was true for the first and second pregnancy trimesters.
This is a positive result that could be a source of comfort for pregnant women who take ADHD medication and who may wish or need to continue their treatment throughout pregnancy. It is important to remember that this study did not examine the impact of other medications or lifestyle changes on a fetus and other studies have demonstrated an correlation between the use of stimulant medications and adverse pregnancy outcomes, like having a caesarean delivery or the baby needing support to start breathing at birth.
Breastfeeding
Many women who have ADD or ADHD discover that breastfeeding is beneficial for their baby even if they need to take medication to alleviate their symptoms. The mother and child must be healthy and well-nourished. Therefore the decision to breastfeed or use ADHD medications should be taken with the assistance from a health professional. The most recent recommendations and evidence1 suggest that a woman does not need to stop breastfeeding in order to take her prescribed medication. Multiple studies have shown that the neurodevelopmental effects on an infant's health in the long run are not significant when a mother is taking her ADHD medication as prescribed.
Stimulants like methylphenidate and dexamfetamine are commonly used to treat ADHD. They are available in immediate-release versions that lasts up to 4 hours, and extended-release forms that are taken once a day in the morning, and may last up to 16 hours. Many people suffering from ADD or ADHD discover that the best way to manage symptoms is to take extended-release medications in the evening or afternoon and then follow it up with an immediate-release tablet.
Some medications, such as Clonidine, can reduce prolactin levels and are not compatible with breastfeeding. Certain people with ADD or ADHD aren't ready to stop breastfeeding for this reason. They decide to change their medication to an alternative stimulant or a non-stimulant, such as atomoxetine or guanfacine. These medications have lower RIDs and are more likely to be covered under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme. It is essential to talk with a GP and/or specialist if you are thinking of changing your medication during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or early postpartum. They can offer advice on the most safest medication to use and how to track the infant's growth and weight. The GP or specialist can also help with the referral to a psychologist or psychiatrist for additional support. They can also refer to dietitians for assistance in managing nutrition and diet.
Postpartum
During pregnancy, women experience enormous hormonal, physical, and emotional changes in their physical, emotional and hormonal. The transition to motherhood can bring tremendous joy, excitement and love, but also frustration or anxiety for some women. This is normal and it's essential to seek help from relatives or her doctor and/or mental health experts if the mother is experiencing difficulties.
It's exciting to be a parent, but it can also be overwhelming, but a new mom shouldn't feel like she must take on everything by herself. Finding the right balance can be challenging, but it can be helped by allowing yourself time to rest, getting enough sleep and eating well. It is also essential to schedule your postpartum checkups since they can spot any potential problems early.
The "baby blues" is an expression used to describe a brief period in which some women feel depressed or anxious after the birth of their baby. This is a common condition that will usually subside on its own in around a week. Some people experience feelings that are more intense and last longer. This is referred to as postpartum depression and is a medical condition that can be treated. If a woman has had depression or anxiety before it, she is at a higher risk of developing it again after the birth of her child.
In a few instances, a woman can develop postpartum psychosis that is extremely risky for the mother and child. It is a psychiatric crisis and should be treated promptly. Treatment could consist of an amalgamation of medication and therapy. A therapist with through this illness may be extremely beneficial. If the symptoms are severe electroconvulsive (ECT) therapy may be suggested.
If there is an episode of postpartum psychiasis in a mother her doctor is likely to prescribe an antipsychotic medication such as lithium or Valproate along with a mood stabilizer like citalopram. They will also likely recommend the use of cognitive-behavioral therapy to treat the underlying issues. Tricyclic antidepressants like imipramine or nortriptyline are sometimes employed, but they can cause challenging side effects and so are typically only prescribed when other medications have not worked.
Adolescence
Adolescence is a critical time of cognitive, physical and psychosocial development. It requires a 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 to include their friends, peers, and acquaintances. adhd no medication may include members of team sports, student groups or even jobs.
In adolescence, the biological changes in brain structure and connectivity are influenced by increasing knowledge, experience and social demands which result in rapid cognitive development. This includes improvements in selective and divided focus (the ability of focusing on several stimuli at the same time) as well as working memory and long-term memory. Additionally, adolescents' ability of thinking abstractly and morally also improves.
These cognitive changes are associated by hormonal changes that make adolescents more attracted by novel and intense experiences. Their hormones also force them to look for experiences that will raise their status above other individuals. This desire to experience new things can be used to gain positive results for example, by trying out for the school play or getting involved in a volunteer activity for the community. It is possible to take a healthy risk for example, like exploring sexual behavior or other risky behavior when they are in a safe and secure environment.
The differing rates of physical growth can create awkward adolescent stages and anxiety or self-consciousness about their body changes. In certain cultures, like those of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, the adolescent years can be a time where young people begin to establish their place in relation to their clans, families, nations, ancestors and country.
Relationships between teens and friends could be a source of support or conflict. The quality of these relationships is important for the wellbeing of adolescents and can be an important factor in their wellbeing and happiness. The relationship of adolescents with parents can also be an important source of support, especially when they are able to resolve family issues in a non-confrontational manner.