Attention Deficit Medication - Warnings
Stimulant Medications, are they safe?
An estimated two million children are on stimulant medications for attention deficit disorder and attention deficit
hyperactivity disorder. Typically diagnosis involves completion of a Conner's Scale by a teacher and parent.
Decision to treat with psycho-therapy versus medication should be discussed. There are several possibilities
for medication, although the most studied, most used, and first line recommendation by the American
Academy of Pediatrics is stimulant medications. In the "old days" fast acting stimulants were sometimes
used as an illicit drug, had to be taken two or three times daily, and had multiple side effects. Today, long acting
formulations are far less addictive, have little or no street value, have less side effects, and can typically be
taken once daily.
Recent warnings from the AAP and FDA have declared there is a risk of heart attack, stroke, and death with the
use of these medications in certain circumstances. The FDA was even asked to put a "Black Box Warning" on
the insert. It was decided not to proceed with the "Black Box Warning" at this time because of too little research
to prove the heart attacks resulted directly from the medication.
Stimulants have been used for a long time. In my opinion, they remain safe for children who are properly
diagnosed with ADD/ADHD and have NO history of heart disease. Pediatricians and psychiatrists continue to
carefully prescribe this type of medication when appropriate.
Many of the above medications (all of the stimulants for instance) are IOC (US Anti-Doping Agency) NOT
approved during many sport's competitions and some sports do not allow during training times as well. Some
of the non-stimulant medications are also non-approved during competition. Check with your sports
association to insure that drug testing will not disqualify you for taking a doctor prescribed medication. A TUE
(Therapeutic Use Exemption) can be filled out in some instances.
Always check with your physician regarding the safety of medication with your sport.
Consider an ECG (electrocardiogram) for certain patients on stimulant medication.
*Dr. Goldstein neither promotes or discourages medication for ADD/ADHD, check with your physician to see what is best for
your child during sport.
wellbody
Focused on the healthcare of athletes
| Examples of Stimulant Medication approved for ADD/ADHD Methylphenidate Amphetamine Dextroamphetamine |
| Example of Non-Stimulant Medication approved for ADD/ADHD Atomoxetine Intuniv There are precautions involving this medication as well- discuss with your doctor. |
| Examples of Non-stimulant Medication commonly used with disorders associated with ADD- but not FDA approved for ADD/ADHD SSRI Neurologic meds such as Tegretol Psychiatric meds such as Risperadone Cardiac meds such as Catapres Imipramine and desipramine Each of these groups of medications have precautions and should be used with the close follow up of a psychologist or psychiatrist. |
