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 findings are based on naturalistic studies that include a large sample of first-trimester exposures.
Pregnancy
Women are thrilled about the having a baby and expecting babies However, they might be concerned about the way their ADHD medication affects their child's future. Stimulant medications are known to cause teratogenic effects and some physicians advise patients to discontinue their medication when trying to conceive or during the first trimester of pregnancy. However, many people suffering from ADHD require the benefits of their medication in order to function in daily life and may struggle without it during this time.
A recent Danish study discovered that exposure to methylphenidate within the first trimester (in the form of a redeemable medication) did not appear to increase the risk of developing major malformations when compared to the control group who did not receive redeemed medications during the first trimester. The study utilized registry-based data from several Danish databases to determine the number of pregnant women and their medications prior to and during pregnancy, including information about whether the woman was being treated for ADHD.
Researchers monitored 898 babies whose mothers had been exposed to methylphenidate and other stimulants during the first trimester. They were compared with 1,270 babies in the control group that were not exposed to stimulant medication or methylphenidate during the first trimester of pregnancy.
Both groups of babies underwent an extensive examination for abnormalities in the fetal heart, such as gastroschisis or omphalocele. The results showed that babies born to women who were exposed to methylphenidate during pregnancy didn't show any increased rates when as compared to the controls. This was true 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 need to continue their treatment throughout their pregnancy. The study did not examine the effects of lifestyle changes or other medications on the fetus. Other studies have demonstrated the connection between stimulant medications and adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as a caesarean birth, or the baby needing help to breathe during birth.
Breastfeeding
Many women with ADD or ADHD discover that breastfeeding is beneficial for their baby, even when they need to take medication to treat their symptoms. The mother and child should be well-nourished. Therefore, the decision whether to breastfeed or take ADHD medications should be made with the assistance of a medical professional. Based on the most recent recommendations and evidence1, a woman doesn't need to stop breastfeeding in order to take the prescribed medication. Numerous studies have demonstrated that the neurodevelopmental effects on an infant's long-term health are minimal 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 immediate-release form, which lasts for up to four hours and extended-release formulations that are taken once a day in the morning, and could last as long as 16 hours. Many people with ADD or ADHD find that the best method to combat their symptoms is to supplement an extended-release medication with immediate-release pills in the evening or in the afternoon.
Certain medications, such as Clonidine, decrease prolactin production and are incompatible with breastfeeding. Some people suffering from ADD or ADHD aren't ready to stop breastfeeding for this reason. They decide to switch their medication to a different stimulant or non-stimulant, like guanfacine or atomoxetine. best adhd medication for adults with anxiety are less likely have high RIDs and could be covered under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme. It is crucial to speak with a GP and/or specialist if you are considering switching your medication during pregnancy, breastfeeding or in the early postpartum period. They can provide you with guidance on the most safest medication and how to track the growth of your infant and its weight. The doctor or specialist may assist with referral to a psychiatrist or psychologist to receive additional assistance. They may also refer you to a dietitian who can assist with diet and nutrition.
Postpartum
During pregnancy, women go through immense 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 happiness, joy and love, but also anger or sadness. This is normal and it is crucial that the mother receives support from loved ones and her health care provider and/or a mental health professional when she is struggling.
Being a mother can be exciting and overwhelming, but there is no reason why the new mom should feel as if she has to do it all alone. Finding the balance can be difficult however, you can assist yourself by taking time to rest and sleep well. It is also crucial to go to your postpartum checkups, as they can spot any potential problems early.
Some women may experience a brief moment of anxiety or depression following the birth of their child, which is called the "baby blues." This is a normal occurrence that will usually subside on its own in around a week. Some people experience feelings that are more intense and last for longer. 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 it is more likely to suffer from it again after giving birth.
In rare instances, women may develop postpartum psychiasis. This is extremely risky for both mother and child. This is a psychiatric issue that should be treated as soon as is possible. The treatment may include a combination of medication and therapy. A therapist who has lived through this illness may be extremely helpful. If the symptoms are severe electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) could be suggested.
If there is an episode of postpartum psychiasis that affects a mother her doctor is likely to prescribe an antipsychotic like Valproate or lithium and a mood stabilizer like citalopram. They may also recommend a course of cognitive behavioral therapy to help with the underlying issues. Tricyclic antidepressants, such as nortriptyline and imipramine are occasionally used but they can have difficult side effects and are generally only prescribed if other medications haven't worked.
Adolescence
Adolescence is an important time for cognitive, physical, and psychosocial growth. Adolescence is an age of rapid growth in terms of physical, cognitive and psychosocial development. Adolescents begin to consider expanding their social circle beyond their immediate family to include their peers, friends and acquaintances. Their social networks may also include members of teams in sports, student organizations or even jobs.
As we grow older, changes in brain structure and connectivity interact with increased experience, knowledge and social demands that change to trigger rapid cognitive growth. This includes improvements in divided and selective attention (the ability to concentrate on multiple stimuli at once), working memory and long-term memory. Additionally adolescents' ability to think abstractly and morally increases.
These cognitive changes are associated by hormonal changes that makes adolescents more drawn to exciting and new experiences. Their hormones also make them seek out experiences which will make them more attractive to other people. The desire to explore new experiences can be utilized to benefit others for instance, by taking part in a school performance. It is possible to take healthy risk, such as exploring sexuality or other risky behavior, provided they are in a supportive and secure environment.
Varying rates of physical development may cause awkward stages of appearance as adolescents enter adolescence as well as feelings of self-consciousness and anxiety about their body's 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 in relation to their clans, their families, their nations as well as their ancestors and their country.
Teens' relationships with their friends can be a source of support or conflict during this time. The quality of these relationships is crucial for the health of adolescents and could be a major factor in their happiness and well-being. The adolescent's relationship with their parents can be a source of comfort, particularly if they can work out family issues in a non-threatening manner.