Quazi Imam, MD

Quazi Imam, MD Quazi Imam, MD
Board certified Psychiatry. Board Certified in Addiction Psychiatry. Board Certified in Geriatric Psychiatry. Board Certified in Forensic Ps

04/24/2024

What Is Narcolepsy?
Narcolepsy is a disorder that disrupts sleep-wake processes. This disruption can cause excessive sleepiness, the primary symptom of narcolepsy, and make it hard for people with narcolepsy to stay awake for long periods of time.
Normal sleep unfolds through a series of stages, with rapid eye movement (REM) sleep occurring in the final stage, usually an hour or more after falling asleep. In narcolepsy, changes in the brain disrupt how sleep works. As a result, REM sleep is irregular and often begins within minutes after falling asleep, which is much earlier than normal. The inability to properly regulate the sleep cycle can lead to serious problems during the day.
According to the International Classification of Sleep Disorders, American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM)AASM sets standards and promotes excellence in sleep medicine health care, education, and research. (ICSD-3), there are two types of narcolepsy: narcolepsy type 1 (NT1) and type 2 (NT2).
Narcolepsy Type 1
NT1 is associated with the symptom of cataplexy, which is the sudden loss of muscle tone. However, not everyone who is diagnosed with NT1 experience episodes of cataplexy. NT1 can also be diagnosed when a person has low levels of hypocretin-1, a chemical in the body that helps control wakefulness.
Narcolepsy Type 2
People with NT2 have many similar symptoms as people with NT1, but they do not have cataplexy or low levels of hypocretin-1. Other sleep disorders also have similar symptoms to those found in NT2, which can make it hard to diagnose.
If a person with NT2 later develops cataplexy or low hypocretin-1 levels, their diagnosis can be reclassified as NT1.
Narcolepsy affects the brain's ability to regulate sleep-wake cycles and causes persistent daytime sleepiness. Additional symptoms include disrupted sleep, sleep paralysis, and sleep-related hallucinations. Treatment for narcolepsy focuses on managing symptoms and reducing accident risk.
Narcolepsy is a chronic neurological disorder that affects the brain's ability to control sleep-wake cycles. People with narcolepsy experience excessive daytime sleepiness and intermittent, uncontrollable episodes of falling asleep during the daytime. These sudden sleep attacks may occur during any type of activity at any time of the day.
• Narcolepsy affects the brain’s ability to regulate sleep-wake cycles and causes persistent daytime sleepiness.
• Additional symptoms include disrupted sleep, sleep paralysis, and sleep-related hallucinations.
• Treatment for narcolepsy focuses on managing symptoms and reducing accident risk.
Narcolepsy is a sleep disorder that is often misunderstood. It is characterized by severe and persistent drowsiness that can cause impairments in school, work, and social settings as well as heighten the risk of serious accidents and injuries.
Although rare in comparison to many other sleep disorders, narcolepsy affects hundreds of thousands of Americans, including both children and adults. How Common Is Narcolepsy?
Narcolepsy is relatively rare. NT1 affects between 20 and 67 people per 100,000 in the United States. According to a population based study in Olmstead county Minnesota, NT1 is two to three times more common. The National Center for Biotechnology Information advances science and health by providing access to biomedical and genomic information.
Calculating the prevalence of narcolepsy is challenging because of underdiagnosis and delays in diagnosis. Many people are not diagnosed with narcolepsy until years after their first symptoms , some estimates place the prevalence of narcolepsy as high as 180 per 100,000.
Narcolepsy occurs roughly equally in men and women and can affect both children and adults. It can occur at any age, but onset has been found to peak at around age 15 and again around age 35.

Mental and Physical Effects: Narcolepsy can have significant effects both physically and mentally. Physically, it can lead to disturbed night-time sleep, sleep paralysis, and cataplexy, a sudden loss of muscle tone triggered by strong emotions which can lead to physical collapse. There is also an increased risk of accidents due to sudden sleep attacks.
Mentally, narcolepsy can cause difficulties such as poor concentration, reduced memory capacity, and mental clouding. It can also lead to emotional and psychological issues, such as depression, anxiety, and social withdrawal due to the fear of having sleep attacks in public. Narcolepsy Treatments:
There is no cure for narcolepsy type 1 or type 2. The goals of treatment for narcolepsy are improving symptoms, reducing risks, and enhancing quality of life.
For many people, narcolepsy remains generally stable over time. In some cases, certain symptoms may improve over time, and rarely, remission of symptoms may happen spontaneously. So far, experts do not know why the disease unfolds differently in different people.
A combination of medical and behavioral approaches can significantly decrease symptoms, although some level of EDS normally persists despite treatment. All therapies should be carried out under the guidance of a doctor who can best tailor a treatment plan to a person’s specific situation.
Behavioral Approaches to Treatment
Behavioral approaches are non-medical forms of therapy, and there are multiple ways that they can be incorporated into the daily habits of people with narcolepsy.
• Planning short naps: Because brief naps are refreshing for people with narcolepsy, budgeting time for naps during the day can reduce EDS. Accommodations at school or work may be necessary to make time for naps.
• Having healthy sleep hygiene: To combat poor sleep at night, people with narcolepsy can benefit from good sleep habits. Good sleep hygiene includes a consistent sleep schedule, a sleep environment with minimal distractions, and limited use of electronic devices before bed.
• Avoiding alcohol and other sedatives: Any substance that contributes to sleepiness may worsen daytime narcolepsy symptoms.
• Driving with caution: People with narcolepsy should talk with the doctor about safe driving. Measures to improve safety could include napping before driving and avoiding long drives.
• Exercising and eating a balanced diet: People with narcolepsy have a higher risk of obesity, which makes exercise and eating well an important part of their overall health.
• Seeking support: Support groups and mental health professionals can promote emotional health and counteract the risks of social withdrawal, depression, and anxiety in people with narcolepsy.
Medications
Although behavioral approaches are frequently helpful, medications for narcolepsy often provide symptom improvement. These drugs require a prescription and should be used carefully and according to the instructions provided by a doctor and pharmacist:
• Modafinil and armodafinil: These two wakefulness-promoting drugs are chemically similar and are typically the first therapy for EDS.
• Methylphenidate: This is a type of amphetamine that can reduce EDS.
• Solriamfetol: This drug was approved by the FDA in 2019 National Library of Medicine, Biotech InformationThe National Center for Biotechnology Information advances science and health by providing access to biomedical and genomic information.
• Sodium oxybate: This medication can reduce cataplexy, EDS, and nighttime sleep disturbances, but it may take weeks to affect EDS National Library of Medicine, Biotech InformationThe National Center for Biotechnology Information advances science and health by providing access to biomedical and genomic information. .
• Pitolisant: Approved by the FDA in 2019, pitolisant is a wakefulness-promoting medication that has also shown a positive effect on cataplexy.
Not all medications work for all patients. Working closely with the doctor can help identify the medication and dosage with the best balance of benefits and downsides.
Treatment: There is currently no cure for narcolepsy, but the symptoms can be managed with medical treatment and lifestyle changes. Medications used to treat the condition include stimulants, such as modafinil and armodafinil, to control sleepiness, and antidepressants to manage symptoms of cataplexy, sleep paralysis, and hallucinations. Sodium oxybate can also be used to improve nighttime sleep and control daytime sleepiness and cataplexy.
Lifestyle changes that can help manage narcolepsy include having a regular sleep schedule, taking scheduled naps during the day, maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise, and avoiding caffeine and alcohol. Cognitive behavioral therapy may also be beneficial for managing the psychological impacts of narcolepsy.
It's important to note that treatment is individualized based on the severity of the symptoms and the patient's general health, age, and tolerance for specific medications or therapies. Regular follow-up care is essential to adjust the treatment as necessary.
DISCLAIMER: THIS TEXT DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. IT IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY. IT IS NOT A SUBSTITUTE FOR PROFESSIONAL MEDICAL ADVICE, DIAGNOSIS, OR TREATMENT. ALWAYS SEEK THE ADVICE OF YOUR PHYSICIAN OR OTHER QUALIFIED HEALTH PROVIDER WITH ANY QUESTIONS YOU MAY HAVE REGARDING A MEDICAL CONDITION.
Please visit my telepsychiatry virtual waiting room. https://doxy.me/drquaziimam
Quazi Imam, M.D. Board Certified in Psychiatry. Board Certified in Addiction Psychiatry. Board Certified in Geriatric Psychiatry. Board Certified in Forensic Psychiatry. Former Assistant Professor of Psychiatry, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, NY. Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist, Harvard Medical School Trained.

04/24/2024

THE EPIDEMIC OF CHILDHOOD AND ADOLESCENT OBESITY IN THE UNITED STATES: NEARLY ONE-THIRD OF U.S. YOUTHS NOW ARE OVERWEIGHT OR OBESE, AND AMONG THOSE AGES 12 TO 19, OBESITY RATES HAVE MORE THAN TRIPLED
Childhood and adolescent obesity have reached epidemic levels in the United States. Currently, about 17% of US children are presenting with obesity. Obesity can affect all aspects of the children including their psychological as well as cardiovascular health; also, their overall physical health is affected. The association between obesity and other conditions makes it a public health concern for children and adolescents. Due to the increase in the prevalence of obesity among children, a variety of research studies have been conducted to discover what associations and risk factors increase the probability that a child will present with obesity. While a complete picture of all the risk factors associated with obesity remains elusive, the combination of diet, exercise, physiological factors, and psychological factors is important in the control and prevention of childhood obesity; thus, all researchers agree that prevention is the key strategy for controlling the current problem. Primary prevention methods are aimed at educating the child and family, as well as encouraging appropriate diet and exercise from a young age through adulthood, while secondary prevention is targeted at lessening the effect of childhood obesity to prevent the child from continuing the unhealthy habits and obesity into adulthood. A combination of both primary and secondary prevention is necessary to achieve the best results.
According to data from the NATIONAL HEALTH AND NUTRITION EXAMINATION SURVEY, MORE THAN 2 IN 5 ADULTS ARE OBESE, AND NEARLY 1 IN 5 CHILDREN ARE OBESE. FURTHERMORE, 19 STATES IN AMERICA HAVE OBESITY RATES OVER 35 PERCENT, INCREASED FROM 16 STATES JUST LAST YEAR.
A decade ago, no states had obesity rates above 35 percent! Obesity is linked to a number of health ailments, including diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and a number of cancers such as breast and colorectal.
The United States is currently facing a serious public health crisis with the epidemic of childhood and adolescent obesity. This alarming trend has significant implications for the health and well-being of the nation's youth, with potential long-term consequences for overall public health and economic productivity.
The prevalence of obesity in children and adolescents in the United States has escalated dramatically in recent decades, posing a significant public health concern. This epidemic is characterized by an excess accumulation of body fat that may impair health, leading to serious health problems, including diabetes, heart disease, and other chronic conditions.
1. Epidemiology: The latest data indicate that approximately one in five children and adolescents in the United States is obese. The prevalence is higher among certain ethnic and socioeconomic groups, indicating the influence of environmental and genetic factors in the development of obesity.
2. Contributing Factors: Several factors contribute to the obesity epidemic, including unhealthy dietary habits, lack of physical activity, genetic predisposition, and socio-economic factors. The modern environment, characterized by easy access to high-calorie foods and sedentary lifestyles, has significantly contributed to this crisis.
3. HEALTH OUTCOMES: CHILDHOOD AND ADOLESCENT OBESITY CAN LEAD TO A HOST OF HEALTH PROBLEMS, BOTH IMMEDIATE AND LONG-TERM. THESE INCLUDE AN INCREASED RISK OF TYPE 2 DIABETES, CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE, SLEEP APNEA, AND PSYCHOSOCIAL ISSUES SUCH AS LOW SELF-ESTEEM AND DEPRESSION.
4. Interventions and Policy Strategies: Addressing the obesity epidemic requires a multi-faceted approach, including individual behavior change, family involvement, school-based interventions, and broader policy changes. Policies aimed at improving the food environment, promoting physical activity, and ensuring access to healthcare services are crucial.
5. The epidemic of childhood and adolescent obesity in the United States is a major public health issue that requires immediate attention. Coordinated efforts involving healthcare providers, educators, policymakers, and families are essential to curb this epidemic and improve the health and wellbeing of our youth.
6. The hypothalamus is the crucial region in the brain that regulates appetite and is controlled by key hormones. Ghrelin, a hunger-stimulating (orexigenic) hormone, is mainly released from the stomach. On the other hand, leptin is primarily secreted from adipose tissue and serves as a signal for the brain regarding the body's energy stores and functions as an appetite -suppressing (anorexigenic) hormone. Several other appetite-suppressing (anorexigenic) hormones are released from the pancreas and gut in response to food intake and reach the hypothalamus through the brain-blood barrier (BBB) . These anorexigenic and orexigenic hormones regulate energy balance by stimulating hunger and satiety by expression of various signaling pathways in the arcuate nucleus (ARC) of the hypothalamus . Dysregulation of appetite due to blunted suppression or loss of caloric sensing signals can result in obesity and its morbidities .
7. Emotional dysfunction due to psychiatric disorders can cause stress and an abnormal sleep-wake cycles. These modifications in biological rhythms can result in increased appetite, mainly due to ghrelin, and can contribute to emotional eating .
8. Recently, the role of changes in the gut microbiome with increased weight gain through several pathways has been described in literature . The human gut serves as a host to trillions of microorganisms, referred to as gut microbiota. The dominant gut microbial phyla are Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, Actinobacteria, Proteobacteria, Fusobacteria, and Verrucomicrobia, with Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes representing 90% of human gut microbiota . The microbes in the gut have a symbiotic relationship within their human host and provide a nutrient-rich environment. Gut microbiota can be affected by various factors that include gestational age at birth, mode of infant delivery, type of neonatal and infant feeding, introduction of solid food, feeding practices and external factors like antibiotic use .
DISCLAIMER: THIS TEXT DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. IT IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY. IT IS NOT A SUBSTITUTE FOR PROFESSIONAL MEDICAL ADVICE, DIAGNOSIS, OR TREATMENT. ALWAYS SEEK THE ADVICE OF YOUR PHYSICIAN OR OTHER QUALIFIED HEALTH PROVIDER WITH ANY QUESTIONS YOU MAY HAVE REGARDING A MEDICAL CONDITION.
Please visit my telepsychiatry virtual waiting room. https://doxy.me/drquaziimam
Quazi Imam, M.D. Board Certified in Psychiatry. Board Certified in Addiction Psychiatry. Board Certified in Geriatric Psychiatry. Board Certified in Forensic Psychiatry. Former Assistant Professor of Psychiatry, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, NY. Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist, Harvard Medical School Trained.

04/23/2024

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after a person is exposed
to a traumatic event, such as combat, assault, natural disaster, or other life-threatening situations.

ONE COMMON SYMPTOM OF POSTTRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER IS DIFFICULTY WITH ATTENTION SPAN AND CONCENTRATION. INDIVIDUALS WITH PTSD MAY EXPERIENCE CHALLENGES FOCUSING ON TASKS, FOLLOWING THROUGH WITH ACTIVITIES, AND MAINTAINING ATTENTION FOR EXTENDED PERIODS OF TIME. THIS CAN IMPACT THEIR ABILITY TO WORK, STUDY, AND ENGAGE IN DAILY ACTIVITIES.

Treatment for PTSD often involves a combination of therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and medication. Therapy can help individuals learn
coping strategies to improve attention and concentration, as well as address underlying issues related to the trauma. It is important for individuals with PTSD experiencing difficulties with attention span and concentration to seek help from a mental health professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate
treatment plan.

RISK OF TREATING WITH ADDERALL IN A PATIENT WITH POSTTRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER.
Treating a patient with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) with medications like Adderall should be approached with caution and careful consideration of
potential risks and benefits.

Adderall is a stimulant medication commonly prescribed for attention-
deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. It works by increasing the
levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain to improve focus, attention,
and impulse control. In the context of PTSD, using stimulant medications like
Adderall to address attention and concentration difficulties may not always be
the best course of action.

HERE ARE SOME CONSIDERATIONS REGARDING THE USE OF ADDERALL IN A PATIENT WITH PTSD (POSTTRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER):

1. **Potential for Increased Anxiety:** Stimulant medications like Adderall can
exacerbate symptoms of anxiety, which are often present in individuals with
PTSD. This can lead to increased feelings of restlessness, jitteriness, and
heightened arousal, which may worsen overall distress.

2. **RISK OF TRIGGERING FLASHBACKS:** STIMULANT MEDICATIONS as ADDERAL CAN SOMETIMES
INCREASE PHYSIOLOGICAL AROUSAL AND EMOTIONAL REACTIVITY, POTENTIALLY TRIGGERING INTRUSIVE MEMORIES OR FLASHBACKS ASSOCIATED WITH THE TRAUMATIC EVENT THAT CAUSED THE PTSD

DRUGS SUCH AS ADDERALL AND RITALIN RAISE CONCENTRATIONS OF THE BRAIN CHEMICAL NOREPINEPHRINE, WHICH HAS BEEN
SHOWN TO RESULT IN MORE VIVID AND PERSISTENT MEMORIES OF EMOTIONALLY CHARGED SITUATIONS. TRAUMATIC MEMORIES ARE A HALLMARK OF PTSD, posttraumatic stress disorder.

NORADRENERGIC OVERACTIVATION OF THE AMYGDALA FROM STIMULANT USE AND ENHANCEMENT OF TRAUMA-RELATED MEMORY CONSOLIDATION MAY THUS PREDISPOSE TRAUMA-EXPOSED INDIVIDUALS TO SUBSEQUENT PTSD SYMPTOMS AND MAY EXACERBATE PTSD SYMPTOMS IN THOSE ALREADY DIAGNOSED WITH PTSD.

DRUGS SUCH AS ADDERALL AND RITALIN RAISE CONCENTRATIONS OF THE BRAIN CHEMICAL NOREPINEPHRINE, WHICH HAS BEEN
SHOWN TO RESULT IN MORE VIVID AND PERSISTENT MEMORIES OF EMOTIONALLY CHARGED SITUATIONS. TRAUMATIC MEMORIES ARE A HALLMARK OF PTSD. DRUGS SUCH AS ADDERALL AND RITALIN RAISE CONCENTRATIONS OF THE BRAIN CHEMICAL NOREPINEPHRINE, WHICH HAS BEEN SHOWN TO RESULT IN MORE VIVID AND PERSISTENT MEMORIES OF EMOTIONALLY CHARGED SITUATIONS.

***DEFENSE DEPARTMENT RESEARCHERS ANALYZING DATA FROM NEARLY 26,000 SERVICE MEMBERS FOUND THAT THOSE WITH
PRESCRIPTIONS FOR THE STIMULANTS WERE FIVE TIMES MORE LIKELY TO HAVE PTSD.

3. **Interaction with Other Medications:** Patients with PTSD may be taking other medications for related symptoms, such as antidepressants or antianxiety
medications. Adderall can interact with these medications, leading to adverse effects or reduced efficacy.
4.KEY CARDIOVASCULAR RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH
ADDERALL USE INCLUDE:
1. INCREASED HEART RATE AND BLOOD PRESSURE: ADDERALL CAN CAUSE A RISE IN HEART RATE AND BLOOD PRESSURE, EVEN IN INDIVIDUALS WITH NO
PREVIOUS HEART CONDITIONS. THIS CAN POTENTIALLY LEAD TO HYPERTENSION AND OTHER
CARDIOVASCULAR PROBLEMS OVER TIME.

5. SUDDEN DEATH: ALTHOUGH RARE, THERE HAVE BEEN REPORTS OF SUDDEN DEATH IN INDIVIDUALS TAKING ADDERALL.
6.**Potential for Misuse or Dependence:** There is a risk of misuse, abuse, and
dependence with stimulant medications like Adderall, especially in individuals with a history of trauma and substance use disorders.

Before prescribing Adderall or any stimulant medication to a patient with PTSD, it is important for
healthcare providers to conduct a thorough assessment, consider alternative treatment options, and closely monitor the patient for any adverse effects.
Collaborating with a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist, can help ensure a comprehensive and individualized treatment
approach for the patient's specific needs and circumstances.

**** NONSTIMULANT MEDICATION CAN HELP IN PATIENT WITH PROBLEM WITH ATTENTION SPAN AND CONCENTRATION, WITHOUT DIAGNOSIS OF ADULT ADHD.
NONSTIMULANT MEDICATIONS SUCH AS ATOMOXETINE (STRATTERA) CAN BE HELPFUL IN IMPROVING ATTENTION SPAN AND CONCENTRATION IN PATIENTS WITHOUT A FORMAL DIAGNOSIS OF ADULT ADHD. ATOMOXETINE IS A SELECTIVE NOREPINEPHRINE REUPTAKE INHIBITOR THAT CAN BE USED OFF-LABEL FOR THESE SYMPTOMS. IT MAY BE CONSIDERED AS AN ALTERNATIVE TREATMENT OPTION FOR INDIVIDUALS WHO CANNOT TOLERATE STIMULANT MEDICATIONS OR FOR WHOM STIMULANTS ARE NOT APPROPRIATE.

Non-pharmacological interventions and behavioral strategies that can help manage symptoms attention span and concentration problems. These may include cognitive-behavioral therapy,
organizational skills training, and lifestyle modifications.

Problem with attention span and concentration happening with other psychiatric disorder other than adult ADHD. And what would be its treatment.

When an individual experiences difficulties with attention span and concentration that are not attributed to adult ADHD, other psychiatric disorders may be considered. Some possible conditions that could present with similar symptoms include:

1. Anxiety disorders: Conditions such as generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, or post-traumatic stress disorder can lead to difficulties in focusing and maintaining attention due to heightened levels of worry, fear, or hypervigilance.

2. Depression: Symptoms of depression, such as feeling fatigued, having low motivation, and experiencing
cognitive slowing, can impact attention and concentration abilities.

3. Bipolar disorder: Both the manic and depressive phases of bipolar disorder can affect attention and
concentration, with symptoms ranging from distractibility during manic episodes to cognitive impairment during
depressive episodes.

4. Sleep disorders: Conditions like insomnia or sleep apnea can result in poor sleep quality, leading to daytime drowsiness, fatigue, and difficulties with attention and concentration.

Treatment for attention and concentration difficulties related to psychiatric disorders other than adult ADHD
will depend on the underlying condition. It is essential to consult with a mental health professional for a comprehensive evaluation and accurate diagnosis. Once the specific disorder is identified, treatment options may include:

1. Psychotherapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapy, or other forms of psychotherapy
can help individuals develop coping strategies, improve focus, and manage symptoms related to attention and
concentration difficulties.

2. Medication: Depending on the diagnosis, medications such as antidepressants, anxiolytics, mood stabilizers, or sleep aids may be prescribed to address the underlying psychiatric condition and improve attention and concentration.

3. Lifestyle modifications: Implementing healthy lifestyle habits, such as regular exercise, balanced nutrition,
adequate sleep hygiene, stress management techniques, and avoiding substances like alcohol and drugs, can support overall mental health and cognitive functioning.

4. Occupational therapy: For individuals struggling with attention and concentration in daily activities,
occupational therapy can provide strategies and tools to enhance productivity, organization, and task management skills.

It is crucial for individuals experiencing persistent difficulties with attention and concentration to seek
professional help for a thorough assessment and personalized treatment plan tailored to their specific needs and circumstances.

******** DANGER OF PRESCRIBING ADDERALL WHEN PATIENT DOES NOT HAVE ADULT ADHD:

Prescribing Adderall to patients who do not have adult attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can have several potential dangers:

1. MISDIAGNOSIS: PRESCRIBING ADDERALL WITHOUT A PROPER ADHD DIAGNOSIS MAY OVERLOOK OR MASK THE TRUE UNDERLYING
CONDITION, DELAYING APPROPRIATE TREATMENT.

2. ADVERSE HEALTH EFFECTS: ADDERALL CAN LEAD TO SERIOUS HEALTH RISKS, INCLUDING INCREASED HEART RATE, HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE, AND THE POTENTIAL FOR HEART DISEASE. IT CAN ALSO CAUSE SLEEP DISTURBANCES, LOSS OF APPETITE, AND POTENTIAL MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES SUCH AS ANXIETY, PARANOIA, AND DEPRESSION.

3. Risk of Dependence and Addiction: Adderall is a potent stimulant with a high potential for abuse and
addiction. Patients might develop a physical or psychological dependence on the drug, leading to withdrawal symptoms when the drug is not taken.

4. Potential for Drug Misuse: If a patient doesn't have ADHD but has access to Adderall, they may misuse the drug for non-medical reasons, such as staying awake for extended periods, enhancing academic or work performance, or even for recreational purposes.

5. ETHICAL AND LEGAL CONCERNS: PRESCRIBING ADDERALL WITHOUT A VALID MEDICAL REASON CAN LEAD TO LEGAL CONSEQUENCES FOR THE PHYSICIAN, INCLUDING LOSS OF LICENSE OR LEGAL ACTION.

THEREFORE, IT'S CRUCIAL TO ENSURE A THOROUGH AND ACCURATE DIAGNOSIS BEFORE PRESCRIBING ADDERALL OR ANY OTHER CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE. IT SHOULD ONLY BE PRESCRIBED WHEN THE BENEFITS TO THE PATIENT OUTWEIGH THE POTENTIAL RISKS.

ADULT ADHD IS NOT AN ACQUIRED DISORDER
OF ADULT LIFE. ATTENTION DEFICIT HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER, IS A DEVELOPMENTAL DISORDER, AS PER DIAGNOSTIC CRITERIA BY THE AMERICAN PSYCHIATRIC ASSOCIATION, IN DSM-V, INDICATES THAT SYMPTOMS OF ADHD, STARTS SINCE CHILDHOOD, BEFORE AGE 12, ADULT ADHD DOES NOT START AT adult age.

DISCLAIMER: THIS TEXT DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. IT IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY. IT IS NOT A SUBSTITUTE FOR PROFESSIONAL MEDICAL ADVICE, DIAGNOSIS, OR TREATMENT. ALWAYS SEEK THE ADVICE OF YOUR PHYSICIAN OR OTHER QUALIFIED HEALTH PROVIDER WITH ANY QUESTIONS YOU MAY HAVE REGARDING A MEDICAL CONDITION.
Please visit my telepsychiatry virtual waiting room. https://doxy.me/drquaziimam
Quazi Imam, M.D. Board Certified in Psychiatry. Board Certified in Addiction Psychiatry. Board Certified in Geriatric Psychiatry. Board Certified in Forensic Psychiatry. Former Assistant Professor of Psychiatry, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, NY. Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist, Harvard Medical School Trained.

04/23/2024

Migraines are severe, recurring, and painful headaches that can be preceded or accompanied by sensory warning signs and other symptoms. The exact cause of migraines is not known, but they may result from changes in the brain as well as genetic factors.
Adderall is a combination of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine, which are central nervous system stimulants that affect chemicals in the brain and nerves that contribute to hyperactivity and impulse control.
Adderall and other stimulants have been associated with an increased risk of new-onset migraines and worsening of existing migraines. The exact mechanism by which this occurs is not known, but it is thought to be related to the vasoconstrictive effect of these drugs.
Stimulants like Adderall can increase blood pressure and heart rate, which can cause vasoconstriction (narrowing of the blood vessels). This can potentially trigger a migraine attack or worsen an existing one.
Furthermore, these drugs can also interfere with sleep, which is a known trigger for migraines. They can also cause dehydration, another possible trigger for migraines.
However, it's important to note that the risk can vary from person to person, and not everyone who takes Adderall or other stimulants will experience migraines.
Patients with migraines who are considering taking Adderall or other stimulants should consult with their healthcare provider to weigh the potential benefits and risks. It is important for healthcare providers to monitor these patients closely for any changes in their migraine patterns.

Headache and its Association with ADHD/ADD and Stimulant Medication For years, the experience of headache and migraine have been studied to determine what causes or perpetuates headache in terms of their frequency, duration, and intensity. Research has indicated that there is no simple answer to this question; depending on the individual, an array of different factors can contribute to or worsen the experience of headache. However, one phenomenon has become clear through years of research: headache is perpetuated by disruption to lifestyle. For individuals who experience headache, the frequency, duration, and severity of headache can worsen when the individual’s lifestyle behaviors like sleep habits, eating habits, level of stress, physical activity, etc. are dysregulated. A sleep disturbance, which could be too much sleep, too little sleep, inappropriate timing of sleep, or inappropriate sleep behavior can be a trigger for headache (Dosi 2015). Likewise, irregularity in intake of meals, which can be due to skipping a meal (often breakfast), altering mealtimes, or eating frequently between meals can be a trigger for headache.
Adderall is in a class of medications called central nervous system stimulants. People with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) often take Adderall to help improve symptoms.And while this drug can be an effective ADHD treatment, it does come with potential side effects — like headaches.
MIGRAINE IS A NEUROLOGICAL CONDITION KNOWN FOR ITS SEVERE HEADACHES. BUT MIGRAINE IS MORE THAN THAT, WITH OTHER SYMPTOMS LIKE:
• DEBILITATING PAIN
• NAUSEA AND VOMITING
• AURAS (WHICH COME WITH THEIR OWN SYMPTOMS LIKE BLURRY VISION)
The relationship between Adderall and migraine is currently quite complicated. It’s not clear if migraine attacks are a side effect of Adderall, although people who live with ADHD may be more likely to also have migraine.
Some people report, based on limited evidence, that Adderall may not necessarily cause migraine headaches but actually help treat them.
Can Adderall cause migraine headaches?
HEADACHES ARE ONE POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECT OF TAKING ADDERALL. BUT EVEN IF THE HEADACHE IS SEVERE, IT MAY NOT BE A MIGRAINE HEADACHE.
PEOPLE WITH ADHD OFTEN HAVE MIGRAINE, POSSIBLY AT A HIGHER RATE THAN PEOPLE WITHOUT ADHD. THEREFORE, SOMEONE WHO IS TAKING ADDERALL FOR ADHD MAY HAVE MIGRAINE HEADACHES — BUT ADDERALL MAY NOT BE THE CAUSE.
In conclusion, while there is a risk of migraines associated with the use of Adderall and other stimulants, this risk needs to be weighed against the potential benefits of these drugs. This decision should be made in collaboration with a healthcare provider.
DISCLAIMER: THIS TEXT DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. IT IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY. IT IS NOT A SUBSTITUTE FOR PROFESSIONAL MEDICAL ADVICE, DIAGNOSIS, OR TREATMENT. ALWAYS SEEK THE ADVICE OF YOUR PHYSICIAN OR OTHER QUALIFIED HEALTH PROVIDER WITH ANY QUESTIONS YOU MAY HAVE REGARDING A MEDICAL CONDITION.
Please visit my telepsychiatry virtual waiting room. https://doxy.me/drquaziimam
Quazi Imam, M.D. Board Certified in Psychiatry. Board Certified in Addiction Psychiatry. Board Certified in Geriatric Psychiatry. Board Certified in Forensic Psychiatry. Former Assistant Professor of Psychiatry, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, NY. Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist, Harvard Medical School Trained.

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