Articles related to STIMULANTS

Uncover valuable strategies to guide your patients in mitigating glaucoma lifestyle-associated risk factors. Smoking significantly increases the risk of developing glaucoma. It results in episcleral vasoconstriction, impaired optic nerve perfusion, irregular blood flow, and higher vasospasms. Additionally, smoking boosts the eye’s oxidative load while reducing circulating antioxidants. Consequently, it amplifies glaucoma risks, especially in genetically susceptible individuals and heavy smokers. Actionably, recommend smoking-cessation apps and credible online resources to patients. Stress too has a considerable impact on glaucoma progression. Chronic stress triggers organ dysfunctions, including eye maladies, elevates intraocular pressure (IOP), and may cause vascular dysregulation, leading to partial hypoxia and hypoglycaemia. Additionally, blood pressure extremes, particularly nocturnal hypotension, heighten the risk of primary open-angle glaucoma. Therefore, endorse stress-reducing relaxation techniques and positive communication strategies to your patients. Turning to stimulants, caffeine and alcohol are noteworthy. Studies suggest that patients genetically predisposed to higher IOP levels may experience amplified effects post-caffeine consumption. Similarly, alcohol consumption correlates with increased IOP, thus posing as another modifiable glaucoma risk factor. In these cases, propose moderation in caffeine and alcohol consumption, advocating for gradual reductions and environmental changes to facilitate better habits. In conclusion, considering factors beyond IOP levels — smoking, stress, and stimulants […]

The United States is currently experiencing a shortage of Adderall, a medication used to treat attention deficit disorder (ADD)/attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. The FDA, in frequent communication with manufacturers, has not provided a clear timeline for when the shortage will be resolved. The shortage is attributed to various factors. The demand for Adderall has increased significantly, with a 10% rise in prescriptions filled in 2021 compared to the previous year. The US Drug Enforcement Agency’s efforts to combat prescription drug misuse have also played a role in limiting production. Furthermore, the pandemic led to the emergence of telemedicine startups, making it easier for individuals to obtain Adderall prescriptions, sometimes inaccurately. While waiting for the supply to be restored, healthcare professionals can consider alternative therapies such as dexmethylphenidate, methylphenidate, and dextroamphetamine.

This 15-year multicohort survey of legal and illicit drug use among teens found that middle schools and high schools with higher levels of prescription stimulant therapy for ADHD tended to have the highest rates of prescription stimulant misuse. Other discovered associations included more parents with higher levels of education, non-Northeastern location, and more non-Hispanic White students.

Pandemic-era telemedicine exceptions that currently allow telehealth prescription of Schedule II narcotics and stimulants without an initial in-person evaluation are to be ended on May 11.

Although research exists on the impact of CNS stimulants used in pregnancy, only a few small studies have looked at atomoxetine and pregnancy outcomes. This large cohort study of 4.2 million pregnancies ending in live births in northern Europe and the US reviewed nearly 1,000 pregnancies exposed to atomoxetine in the first trimester. Compared with non-exposed pregnancies, there was no observed increase in major congenital abnormalities with atomoxetine use in the first trimester.

Misuse of prescription stimulants was associated with prior year treatment for depression, ADHD, and substance use disorder. Identified risk factors for stimulant misuse include use of prescription drugs in the past month (5.5 times increased risk) and use of illegal drugs in the past month (8 times higher risk).