Attention-deficit history

Dopamine-Stimulating Medications. A variety of drugs that increase the availability of dopamine have been studied in cocaine addicts including L-DOPA, bupropion, amantadine, and methylphenidate. In small uncontrolled trials, these have shown some benefit, but definitive studies have yet to be performed. In addition, some dopamine-stimulating medications (in particular, the stimulants like methylphenidate or the amphetamines) are themselves subject to abuse, though, of note, this is typically not a problem when they are prescribed to patients who do not have a history of substance abuse such as, for example, in the treatment of attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder. 

The increasing use of stimulants in the United States to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has aroused parental concern and compelled both medical professionals and the media to question the safety and efficacy of this type of treatment. Because ADHD is among the most common reasons for seeking mental health services for children, these questions are more pertinent than ever. This chapter will examine the history of stimulant use, the mechanism of action, pharmacokinetics, side effects, and issues related to their clinical use in children and adolescents. More detailed information on clinical applications is provided in Section III. 

Biederman, J., Baldessarini, R.J., Wright, V., Keenan, K., and Fara-one, S. (1993b), A double-blind placebo controlled study of desipramine in the treatment of attention deficit disorder III. Lack of impact of comorbidity and family history factors on clinical response. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry 32 199-204. 

The past 25 years has led to a phenomenon almost unique in history. Methodologically rigorous research...indicates that ADD [attention deficit disorder] and hyperactivity as syndromes simply do not exist. 

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may be a susceptibility factor for risperidone-induced tardive dyskinesia and withdrawal dyskinesia. Both conditions have occurred in patients with a past or recent history of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. 

Dr. W tests for intelligence, visual motor skills, academic achievement, and emotional issues. Based on the test results and Michael s history, Dr. W and Dr. K tell Mr. and Mrs. S that Michael has attention deficit disorder (ADHD)—inattentive type. They are surprised to hear this finding since Michael has never been hyper. Dr. K and Dr. W schedule a joint appointment with Mr. and Mrs. S to go over their questions and concerns. 

Several medical, medication-induced, or substance-related causes of mania and depression have been identified (see Table 68-2 for causes of mania and Table 67-1 in Chap. 67 on depressive disorders for causes of depression). " A complete medical, psychiatric, and medication history physical examination and laboratory testing are necessary to rule out any organic causes of mania or depression. An accurate diagnosis is important because some psychiatric and neurologic disorders present with manic-like symptoms. For example, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and a manic episode have similar characteristics thus individuals with bipolar disorder may be misdiagnosed and prescribed central nervous system stimulants. Use of any substance that affects the central nervous system (e.g., alcohol, antidepressants, caffeine, central nervous system stimulants, hallucinogens, or marijuana) can worsen symptoms and decrease the... 

Executive function deficits are common among people with FASD, and such deficits are related to crime. Sixty percent of FASD individuals have a history of trouble with the law and 50 percent have been in jail or prison at one time or another. Executive function deficits are also common in other disorders, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, autism, various learning disabilities, and traumatic brain injury.27... 

A 19-year-old white male with a history of multiple drug abuse, psychosis, depression and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder used an unknown quantity of MXE IV for abuse shortly before he was discharged from an inpatient detoxification facility. He was on bupropion, aripiprazole and chlorprothixene. About 30 min after the injection, he presented to the ER of the hospital with extreme agitation, ataxia and semistuporous state. 

A 32-year-old man with a history of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and major depression. Several months before this case presentation, he suffered from mild depression. Two weeks before presentation, he took pseudoephedrine. 

In the United States, only seven artificial food dyes may be used the restriction also applies imports and the use of the compounds in cosmetics. These are shown in Figure 24.7. Two more dyes are allowed for specific purposes, citrus red 2 to color orange peel and orange B to color hot dog casings. The azo dyes are the most controversial, as they have been connected with attention deficit disorder (ADD) and ADHD in children, and these are being phased out in the EU, and the safe limits for their use lowered in the United States. As with the fabric dyes, the history is one of indiscriminate use followed by health concerns and increasing restrictions, with probably more restrictions to come. 

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