Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that impacts one's executive functioning. Categorized into three distinct types: inattentive, hyperactive, or combined(inattentive and hyperactive), each with its own symptoms. Inattentive types are commonly characterized by not being able to focus on tasks, and hyperactivity is the inability to sit still as well as impulsivity. Combined type of course being a combination of the two. ADHD is commonly treated with the use of stimulant medications such as Adderall, Vyvanse, and Ritalin. These medications have been shown to be very effective in treating ADHD by improving focus through the release of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. However stimulant medication has also been shown to be one of the most misused medications, one example of its misuse is for college students to enhance their performance in the classroom. Since its use has also been shown to enhance once academic performance, however this raises major health concerns as the use of stimulant medication for enhancement has major consequences on one's health, and raises serious ethical concerns. Some of these side effects include severe withdrawal symptoms such fatigue, depression and poor sleep. As well as addiction, cardiovascular events, psychosis, feelings of hostility, and paranoia.
This goes to show the major effects these medications can have one patient and demonstrates the need for greater caution to be taken on the behalf of medical professionals when prescribing these medications. Since in my own life I've had friends who had never bee+ere having trouble staying focused in class. Going back to some of the four main biomedical principles, in particular beneficence and
Nonmalfeasance as prescribing stimulant medications to patients that potentially don't even have ADHD is a major breach of these ethical values.
Interesting post, Kidus! I appreciate the points you bring up in the last paragraph because I believe medications should only be taken with a prescription due to adverse reactions. Being a student on a college campus, I also agree that there are a lot of false perceptions about taking unprescribed ADHD medication. Professors can warn against usage and enforce policies to deter drug use, but what would you suggest to tackle this issue, especially since doctors cannot always predict how patients might misuse or share their medications?
ReplyDeleteNice informational post! I also agree with your statement about people false prescribing themselves with ADHD medication due mostly through miscommunication in social media (such as tik Tok) due to enhance "academic performance". I agree with your point about informing students about the importance in using the right prescription and diagnosis given to you through a professional healthcare provider. What made you write your blog on ADHD?
ReplyDeleteGreat post, Kidus - I think it is super interesting how easy it seems to be for people to receive these prescriptions without a proper ADHD diagnosis. What does stimulant induced psychosis look like?
ReplyDelete