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ADHD Medication During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding The decision to stop or continue ADHD medications during pregnancy and nursing is challenging for women with the condition. There isn't much information on how long-term exposure to these drugs can affect the foetus. A study recently published in Molecular Psychiatry demonstrates that children exposed to ADHD medication during pregnancy do not develop neurological disorders such as impaired hearing or vision, febrile seizures or IQ impairment. adhd medication list acknowledge that more high quality research is needed. Risk/Benefit Analysis Women who are pregnant and taking ADHD medication must weigh the benefits of taking it against the possible dangers for the fetus. how to treat adhd without medication in adults do not have the necessary data to make unequivocal recommendations but they can provide information regarding benefits and risks that can aid pregnant women in making informed choices. A study published in Molecular Psychiatry found that women who were taking ADHD medications in early pregnancy did not face a significantly increased risk of fetal cardiac malformations or major birth defects that are structural. Researchers used a large sample-based case control study to assess the frequency of major structural defects in infants who were born to mothers who were taking stimulants during pregnancy. Clinical geneticists and pediatric cardiologists looked over the cases to ensure an accurate classification of the cases and to reduce the chance of bias. However, the study had its limitations. In particular, they were unable to distinguish the effects of the medication from the disorder that is underlying. This limitation makes it difficult for researchers to determine whether the few associations observed between the exposed groups were due to the use of medications, or if they were caused by comorbidities. Additionally, the researchers did not look at long-term offspring outcomes. The study did reveal that infants whose mothers took ADHD medication during pregnancy were at slightly greater risk of being admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) than infants whose mothers had not taken any medication or stopped their medications before or during pregnancy. This was due to central nervous system disorders, and the higher risk of admission did not appear to be influenced by the stimulant medications were taken during pregnancy. Women who were taking stimulant ADHD medications during pregnancy also had a higher likelihood of having a caesarean section or a baby that scored low on the Apgar scale (less than 7). These risks did not appear to be affected by the kind of medication used during pregnancy. Researchers suggest that the minor risks associated with the use ADHD medications during early pregnancies can be offset by greater benefits to both baby and mother of continued treatment for the woman's condition. Physicians should talk to their patients about this and, if possible, help them develop coping skills that can lessen the impact of her disorder in her daily functioning and her relationships. Interactions with Medication Many doctors are faced with the decision of whether to continue treatment or stop during pregnancy as more women are diagnosed with ADHD. The majority of these decisions are made in the absence of solid and reliable evidence in either case, which means that doctors must weigh their knowledge from their own experiences, those of other doctors, and what the research suggests about the subject, along with their best judgment for each patient. The issue of risk to infants is particularly tricky. A lot of studies on this topic are based on observations rather than controlled research and their conclusions are often contradictory. Most studies focus on live births, which may underestimate the teratogenic impact that can lead to abortions or terminations of pregnancy. The study that is discussed in the journal club addresses these limitations by analyzing both data on live and deceased births. Conclusion: While some studies have revealed a positive correlation between ADHD medications and certain birth defects However, other studies haven't shown such a relationship. Most studies have shown that there is a neutral, or slight negative effect. In every case it is imperative to conduct a thorough evaluation of the potential risks and benefits must be performed. It can be difficult, if not impossible for women with ADHD to stop taking their medication. In fact, in an article published in Archives of Women's Mental Health psychologist Jennifer Russell notes that stopping ADHD medication during pregnancy can cause depression, feelings of loneliness and family conflict for those suffering from the disorder. The loss of medication can also affect the ability to drive safely and complete work-related tasks, which are crucial aspects of daily life for people with ADHD. She recommends women who are uncertain about whether or not to stop taking medication because of their pregnancy should consider the possibility of educating friends, family members and colleagues about the condition, its impact on daily functioning, and on the advantages of continuing the current treatment plan. Educating them can also help the woman feel supported as she struggles with her decision. It is important to note that some medications can pass through the placenta so if the patient decides to discontinue her ADHD medication during pregnancy and breastfeeding, she must be aware of the possibility that traces of the drug could be transferred to the infant. Birth Defects Risk As the use and misuse of ADHD drugs to treat symptoms of attention deficit disorder hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is increasing the concern over the potential effects of these drugs on foetuses. A recent study published in the journal Molecular Psychiatry adds to the existing information on this topic. Researchers used two massive data sets to study over 4.3 million pregnancies and determine if the use of stimulant medications caused birth defects. Researchers discovered that, while the overall risk is low, first-trimester ADHD medication exposure was associated with slightly higher rates of certain heart defects, like ventriculoseptal defect. The authors of the study didn't discover any connection between early use of medication and other congenital anomalies, like facial deformities, or club feet. The results are consistent with previous studies showing the presence of a small, but significant increase in the risk of heart malformations among women who began taking ADHD medications before the birth of their child. The risk grew during the latter part of pregnancy, when a lot of women begin to discontinue their medication. Women who took ADHD medication during the first trimester were more likely need a caesarean and also have a low Apgar after birth and had a baby that required help breathing after birth. However the authors of the study were not able to eliminate bias due to selection by limiting the study to women who didn't have any other medical conditions that could have contributed to these findings. The researchers hope that their research will help inform the clinical decisions of doctors who treat pregnant women. They advise that while the discussion of the benefits and risks is important but the decision to stop or keep treatment should be based on each woman's requirements and the severity of her ADHD symptoms. The authors also warn that even though stopping the medication is an alternative, it is not a recommended practice because of the high prevalence of depression and other mental health issues among women who are pregnant or who are recently post-partum. Furthermore, research suggests that women who decide to stop taking their medication are more likely to experience difficulties adapting to life without them after the birth of their baby. Nursing The responsibilities of being a new mother can be overwhelming. Women suffering from ADHD may face a lot of challenges when they must deal with their symptoms, attend doctor appointments, prepare for the birth of a baby and adjust to new routines. Many women decide to continue taking their ADHD medication during pregnancy. The majority of stimulant drugs are absorbed through breast milk in very small quantities, so the risk for breastfeeding infant is minimal. The amount of exposure to medications can vary depending upon the dosage and frequency of administration as well as time of day. In addition, different drugs enter the infant's system via the gastrointestinal tract, or through breast milk. The impact of these medications on a newborn's health is not completely comprehended. Because of the lack of research, some physicians may be inclined to discontinue stimulant medications during a woman's pregnancy. This is a difficult decision for the patient, who must balance the benefit of continuing her medication against the possible risks to the foetus. Until more information becomes available, GPs may ask pregnant patients whether they have an background of ADHD or if they intend to take medication during the perinatal phase. buy adhd medication uk increasing number of studies have proven that most women can safely continue to take their ADHD medication during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. In response, a rising number of patients are opting to do this. They have discovered through consultation with their physicians that the benefits of retaining their current medication outweigh any potential risks. It's important for women with ADHD who are thinking of breastfeeding to seek out a specialist psychiatrist's advice prior becoming pregnant. They should discuss their medication with their prescriber as well as the pros and cons for continuing treatment. This includes non-pharmacological methods. Psychoeducation is also needed to help pregnant women with ADHD recognize the signs and the underlying disorder. They should also learn about treatment options and strengthen coping mechanisms. This should be a multidisciplinary effort including obstetricians, GPs, and psychiatry. Pregnancy counseling should include discussion of a treatment plan for the mother as well as the child, monitoring of indicators of deterioration, and, if necessary modifications to the medication regimen.