With recent news reports on ADHD medication shortage, specifically Adderall®, it brings an interesting topic to mind – the modern pill dilemma. Have we become too reliant on medication? For many with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), medication is a lifeline. It can be a tool used to enable longer periods of focus, and in turn greater success in various fields of life. ADHD is among the most common mental conditions in children and teens; CHADD reports approximately 5.3 million children between ages of 3-17 (8.7%) have a current diagnosis of ADHD. ADHD is slightly less common in adults, with approximately 8 million adults (approx. 5%) reported to be living with the condition.
There is an ongoing ADHD medication pill dilemma debate if ADHD is being overdiagnosed and medication overprescribed unnecessarily. This also raises questions around the impact of ADHD medication and potential long-term effects especially amongst children. Like any medication, ADHD medication can also have side effects like the following:
- Loss of appetite or reduced appetite
- Difficulty falling asleep or disrupted sleep patterns
- Irritability or mood swings
- Dry mouth or throat
- Dizziness Headaches
- Nausea or stomach upset Increased heart rate or blood pressure
- Increased anxiety