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ADHD Medication During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding<br><br>Women with ADHD have to make a difficult choice on whether to keep or stop taking ADHD medication during pregnancy and breast-feeding. There aren't enough data regarding [https://postheaven.net/juicestem5/5-killer-quora-questions-on-adhd-and-anxiety-medication how does medication for adhd work] exposure over time may affect a fetus.<br><br>A recent study published in Molecular Psychiatry shows that children exposed to ADHD medication in the uterus don't develop neurological disorders like impaired vision or hearing seizures, febrile seizures, or IQ impairment. The authors acknowledge the need for more high-quality studies.<br><br>Risk/Benefit Analysis<br><br>Women who are pregnant and taking ADHD medication must consider the benefits [https://www.metooo.io/u/6737c8561c61af1191381ca8 different types of adhd medication] taking it against the possible risks for the foetus. The doctors don't have the information to give clear advice, but can provide information on risks and benefits to aid pregnant women in making an informed decision.<br><br>A study published in Molecular Psychiatry found that women who were taking ADHD medications during their early pregnancy did not face a significantly higher risk of fetal cardiac malformations or major structural birth defects. Researchers conducted a massive population-based study of case control to compare the incidence of major structural defects in infants who were born to mothers who took stimulants during pregnancy. Clinical geneticists, pediatric cardiologists and other experts reviewed the cases in order to make sure that the classification was accurate and to eliminate any bias.<br><br>However, the study had its limitations. In particular, they were not able to differentiate the effects of the medication from the effects of the underlying disorder. That limitation makes it difficult to determine whether the limited associations observed in the groups that were exposed result from medication use or confounding by comorbidities. The researchers did not study long-term outcomes for offspring.<br><br>The study revealed that babies whose mothers had taken ADHD medication during pregnancy were at a slightly higher risk of admission to the neonatal care unit (NICU) in comparison to those whose mothers did not use any medication during pregnancy, or had discontinued taking their medication prior to or during pregnancy. This increase was due to central nervous system disorders, and the higher risk of admission did not appear to be affected by the type of stimulant medications were used during pregnancy.<br><br>Women who used stimulant ADHD medication during pregnancy were also at an elevated risk of having a caesarean section or having a baby born with low Apgar score (less than 7). These increases appeared to be unrelated to the type of medication taken during pregnancy.<br><br>Researchers suggest that the minor risks associated with the use ADHD medications in early pregnancies can be offset by greater benefits to both baby and mother of continued treatment for the woman's disorder. Physicians should discuss the issue with their patients and, if possible, assist them in developing strategies for improving their coping skills that may minimize the impact of her disorder on her daily functioning and relationships.<br><br>Medication Interactions<br><br>As more women than ever are diagnosed with ADHD and treated with medication, the issue of whether or not to end treatment during pregnancy is a question that more and more doctors face. These decisions are often made without clear and reliable evidence. Instead, physicians must consider their own expertise, the experience of other doctors and the research on the subject.<br><br>The issue of possible risks to infants is particularly tricky. Many of the studies on this subject are based on observations rather than controlled research, and their conclusions are often contradictory. Furthermore, most studies restrict their analysis to live births, which could undervalue the serious teratogenic effects that can lead to abortion or termination of the pregnancy. The study presented in this journal club addresses these shortcomings by examining data on both live and deceased births.<br><br>The conclusion The conclusion: While some studies have found an association between ADHD medications and the possibility of certain birth defects, other studies have found no connection and the majority of studies have a neutral or slightly negative impact. In all cases it is imperative to conduct a thorough analysis of the potential risks and benefits must be performed.<br><br>For many women with ADHD, the decision to stop medication is difficult, if not impossible. In fact, in a recent article in Archives of Women's Mental Health, psychologist Jennifer Russell notes that stopping ADHD medication during pregnancy can increase depression, feelings of isolation and family conflict for patients with ADHD. The loss of medication can also affect the ability to safely drive and perform work-related tasks, which are vital aspects of everyday life for those with [https://minecraftcommand.science/profile/woolenerror93 adhd uk medication].<br><br>She suggests that women who are not sure whether to take the medication or discontinue it due to pregnancy, educate their family members, coworkers, and acquaintances about the condition, the effects on daily functioning, and the benefits of keeping the current treatment regimen. It can also help women feel more confident in her decision. Some medications can pass through the placenta. If a woman decides to not take her ADHD medication while breastfeeding, it is important to be aware that the drug may be transferred to her baby.<br><br>Risk of Birth Defects<br><br>As the use and misuse of ADHD medication to treat symptoms of attention deficit disorder hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), increases the concern over the potential adverse effects of the drugs on fetuses. A recent study published in the journal Molecular Psychiatry adds to the body of information on this topic. Researchers used two huge data sets to study more than 4.3 million pregnant women and determine if the use of stimulant medications increased birth defects. While the overall risk is low, the researchers did find that first-trimester exposure to ADHD medications was associated with a slightly higher rate of specific heart defects, like ventriculo-septal defects (VSD).<br><br>The researchers of the study found no link between early use of medication and congenital abnormalities such as facial clefting or club foot. The findings are in line with previous studies showing the presence of a small, but significant increase in the risk of cardiac malformations among women who began taking ADHD medications before pregnancy. The risk was higher during the latter part of pregnancy, as many women decide to stop taking their ADHD medications.<br><br>Women who took ADHD medication during the first trimester were more likely require a caesarean delivery, have an insufficient Apgar after birth and have a baby who needed help breathing at birth. The authors of the study were not able to eliminate bias due to selection because they limited their study to women with no other medical conditions that might have contributed to the findings.<br><br>The researchers hope their study will serve to inform the clinical decisions of physicians who encounter pregnant women. The researchers suggest that, while discussing risks and benefits are important, the choice regarding whether or not to stop medication should be made according to the severity of each woman's ADHD symptoms and the needs of the woman.<br><br>The authors caution that, although stopping the medication is an option to consider, it is not recommended because of the high incidence of depression and mental health issues in women who are expecting or recently gave birth. Additionally, the research suggests that women who choose to stop their medications are more likely to experience difficulties getting used to life without them after the baby's arrival.<br><br>Nursing<br><br>The responsibilities of being a [https://zenwriting.net/colonkendo92/how-to-explain-adhd-medications-to-your-grandparents new Adhd medication uk] mother can be overwhelming. Women who suffer from ADHD who must work through their symptoms while attending physician appointments as well as preparing for the arrival of a child and adjusting to new household routines are often faced with a number of difficulties. Many women decide to continue taking their ADHD medication during pregnancy.<br><br>The majority of stimulant drugs are absorbed through breast milk in small amounts, therefore the risk to the infant who is breastfeeding is [http://www.bitspower.com/support/user/waymile97 low estrogen and adhd medication]. The rate of medication exposure will vary based on the dosage, frequency of administration and the time of the day. Additionally, individual medications enter the baby's system differently through the gastrointestinal tract as well as breast milk. The impact of this on a newborn is not well understood.<br><br>Due to the absence of research, some physicians might be tempted to stop taking stimulant medication during the course of pregnancy. It's a difficult choice for the woman who must weigh the advantages of her medication against the risks to the embryo. In the meantime, until more information is available, doctors can inquire about pregnant patients whether they have a history of ADHD or if they intend to take medication in the perinatal stage.<br><br>A growing number of studies have shown that women can continue taking their ADHD medication during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. This has led to an increasing number of patients choose to do so and, in consultation with their doctor they have found that the benefits of maintaining their current medication outweigh any risks.<br><br>Women who suffer from ADHD who are planning to breastfeed should seek advice from an expert psychiatrist prior to becoming pregnant. They should review their medications with their doctor and discuss the pros and cons of continued treatment, including non-pharmacological management strategies. Psychoeducation is also necessary to help pregnant women suffering from ADHD be aware of the symptoms and the underlying disorder. They should also learn about treatment options and reinforce coping mechanisms. This should be a multidisciplinary process with the GPs, obstetricians, and psychiatrists. Pregnancy counselling should include the discussion of a treatment plan for both the mother as well as the child, and monitoring for signs of deterioration and when necessary, making adjustments to the [https://www.hulkshare.com/tankerparrot56/ what medication is prescribed for adhd] regimen.