Pregnancy and Adderall: Insights on Safety and Substitute Medications
Adderall, a medication commonly used to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy, has been a topic of debate when it comes to its use during pregnancy. The drug works by stimulating the central nervous system and increasing the availability of neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain.
However, the exact effects of Adderall on pregnant mothers and their growing babies are not fully understood. Animal studies suggest that Adderall may increase the risk of congenital abnormalities involving the limbs or digestive tract, but the Centre for Disease Control (CDC) describes these risks as 'very low.'
The general consensus in the medical community is that Adderall and pregnancy should not mix due to the risks it poses. These risks include psychosis, heart attack, stroke, and death. Adderall can cause side effects such as rapid heart rate, loss of appetite, trouble sleeping, weight loss, restlessness, nervousness, cold or numbness in the extremities, and the risk of developing an addiction.
Babies born to mothers taking Adderall in pregnancy are at increased risk of premature delivery, low birth weight, and withdrawal symptoms including agitation, dysphoria, laziness, and poor feeding and growth. Adderall is a category C medication, indicating that it has shown adverse effects in animal studies and that no 'adequate and well-controlled' studies have been performed on humans.
Despite these risks, in certain situations, a pregnant woman may be prescribed Adderall if the benefits outweigh the risks to the baby. However, it is important to note that alternatives to Adderall for treating ADHD during pregnancy exist. These include talk therapy, relaxation techniques, exercise, and antidepressants.
A study of 17 animal studies concluded that ADHD meds, including Adderall, impaired reproduction. Yet, a review of eight studies on pregnant mothers using Adderall found that the drug did not appear to be associated with adverse outcomes in moms or babies. Some women claim that taking Adderall has helped them get pregnant, but these claims are not supported by evidence.
Consulting a doctor is crucial for determining the best course of action for managing ADHD symptoms during pregnancy. Dr. Sara F. Vagi advises that a patient with ADHD should get off Adderall before trying to conceive. Adderall is not recommended for nursing mothers as it can pass through breast milk and cause undesirable symptoms in the baby.
For those struggling with a dependency on Adderall, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration's helpline offers 24/7 free, confidential support. The use of Adderall in pregnancy more than doubled between 1998 and 2011, revealing that many people may not understand its risks during these critical 9 months. It is essential to make informed decisions about one's health and the health of a developing baby.
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