DR. SAYS ADDERALL HAS DAMAGED MY HEART! | ADHD Information
Hi-my name is Janah!
I am hoping to find others out there that may be experiencing cardiac problems such as arrythmias and tachycardia (irregular and racing heart beats). Let me back up a little...
I recently spent 2 days in the hospital after fainting for the 3rd time from severe dizzy spells that I had been experiencing 6 weeks prior. I chalked it up to the idea that I had maybe just overdone it or I was too hot etc. here in Florida's climate. (But my heart was POUNDING through my chest-my husband said he could actually see my shirt moving. )When he took me to the ER I passed out again in the triage room... all because they had me go from sitting to standing and my heart rate sored to 182! They said I had an "arthistitic pulse" and admitted me for 2 days to do further testing.
They did an ultrasound on my heart and an EKG and found an arrythmia, a prolapsed valve, and supraventricular tachycardia.
I now have 3 heart conditions at the age of 31!!
I could not understand this because my diet is decent, I get a fair amount of excercise and I had always been pretty healthy. But the cardiologist said that it is most likely related to the fact that I have been on ADDERALL for 3 1/2 years. I could not believe that the ONE thing that I depended on to keep me focused and productive had actually damaged my heart! They took me off the Adderall IMMEDIATELY -I did not get to wean off because he said he didn't want me to have one more dose at that point. My dosage was only 10mg. a day.
Without my ADD med, I crashed, I mean CRASHED so hard for 3 whole days ...I was totally weak and miserably depressed off that medication. I had NO idea how potent Adderall really was.
I was told by my psychiatrist that it had "small amounts of amphetamine" in it, NOT that it was actually FOUR different AMPHETAMINES in ONE pill! Obviously, this has had some serious effects on my heart that aren't going to go away and that could be early signs of heart disease according to my cardiologist. Did I mention that I am 31 years old???
I just wondered if there was anyone else out there in "computer land" that has experienced this same phenomenon????
What gave me the courage to write this tonight is that I met a lady just by "chance" at my church last sunday who we were praying for that had just been diagnosed with congestive heart failure. I learned from her sister that they have tied her cardiac condition to 6 years use of her ADD medication. The name of it she said, was Adderall.
Any help you can give me would be very appreciated!
Ok - This totally scares me about you having heart problems on this medication. My dr has assured me that there are plenty of long term studies showing no ill effects on the heart (this was before I saw your post). I now want to get an ultrasound on my heart just to make sure that the 5 mths I have been taking between 10-20 mg have not done damage. I have a 7.5 mth old son and I dont want to jepordize my health. If anyone has more info on this please tell me.
thanks - hbone
Hi HBone-
Thanks for your reply...I did a bit of research with my husband and found out that between 1990-1997 there have been 160 unexplained cardiac sudden deaths from people taking Adderall, all under the age of 40, and all completely healthy. When I get more current stats I will share them with you.
I understand what you mean by your doctor saying that there is no studies to show risks , but there ARE REAL STATS and you should maybe ask him to SHOW YOU IN PRINT THE STUDIES THAT SHOW NO CARDIAC effects...You can tell him the info I got came directly from The Division of Pharmacovigilance and Epidemiology.
Unfortunately, with the kickbacks that ALL Psychiatrists receive from the pharmaceutical companies it makes even our own doctors bias. My doctor who originally prescribed me the Adderall blew me away with his knowledge of adult ADD. He is a national speaker and boardmember with CHADD. But, he was NOT honest with me or forthcoming with the risks in taking this med. We, as patients, need to educate ourselves and ask more questions!!!
Take your pulse periodically (like 2 hours into the med. when it is at it's peak)and watch for symptoms of pounding heart; otherwise your probably okay. Please know that I do NOT mean to trash this medicine or the doctors out there! Believe me, even knowing what I am now facing withmy heart, I still miss my Adderall and the confidence it gave me to know I could perform at my best.
I have 3 little boys myself and it so scary knowing something could happen to me, so I know just how you feel about your little one. Maybe you could start by just getting a physical where they take your heart rate, vitals, bloodwork, etc --you will find a red flag at that staring point if there is concern. A very high pulse that got even higher with change in position and dizzy spells were my key to knowing something was off-I just never thought it would be my heart. Ironically, my blood pressure remained normal, but definitely not my heart rate.
Best of luck to you and keep in touch-I'd like to know everything turned out okay with you! -Janah
Janah3,
My son is 11yrs. He was on Ritalin for 5 yrs. we went for a school psychical. The doctor told me he had tachycardia. We went for blood work, EKG, and had a 24hr. monitor. Thank God his reports came back normal. We are trying other medications only for school. thank you for telling your story. I will certainly be more vigilant. I also take Ritalin I'm 35 and taking it for 9 yrs.
Hi-
Thanks for your reply..and the encouragement, something I really need right now! I believe Straterra and Wellbutrin are the main ADHD meds that are NON-stimulant and would have minimal if any cardiac effects?? but check, check, and check again-life is too preciuos right? Have you had your own heart checked after being on Ritilan for so long? An excellent and informative article I read can be found at www.garynull.com/Documents/PathologizingLife.htm
Best of luck and thanks again! Janah
[QUOTE=janah3]
Janah - Thanks for getting back to me. I read that article from the link you list a post. Did you get the cardiac death info (between 1990-97) from this article that talks about Ritalin long term use? Just curious.
How are you feeling now that you have been off Adderall for a little while? Were you ever taking the XR version or just the regular? I have been on this for 5.5 mths and just dont know what I am going to do. My instinct tells me to stop because all of this scares me & i have other people in my life who need me healthy. I just hope I havent done any damage in the short term. I get my blood pressure checked regularly and its very low as I am a long time exerciser and get lots of sleep, etc. And other then getting my heart rate assessed by my primary care dr I have not looked into any other tests. Dont know if you can get an ultrasound on your heart without a referral. Also, I am calling my psychiatrist today (again) to tell him about your post.
Again - please tell me how you are, how long you have now been off. I am worried about being exhausted! I sometimes take a few days off (weekends, vacations) but I am thinking I will seriously consider going off for good which bums me out but it may be the best decision I can make for me and my family.
Hbone
My 5 year old Grandaughter was put on this medication yesterday. What can you tell me? I GET CHEST PAINS EVERYTIME I READ THIS THREAD
In early 2003, the FDA approved Straterra, the first non stimulant medication for adults with AD/HD. Below is consumer information about Straterra and those with high blood pressure or preexisting heart problems should NOT take Straterra. Straterra is a blood level medication as it can take up to 6 weeks to experience the maximum benefits whereas stimulant medications flush out of the system not too long after the dose has worn off. Patients with any kind of preexisting medical condition should be extremely vigilant in terms of researching drugs interactions and that applies to any medication. Also be leary of information on the internet as many web sites have outdated information or misleading information for the intent of selling a product. Before tying any medication for AD/HD, always consult with your doctor and pharmacist as each child responds differently.
Strattera Consumer Information
JeaniS-
I feel for you both, and wish you peace of mind and body on Tuesday. If your granddaughter really needs a medication to help her and it sounds like she does, ask the doctor to try her on Straterra or Wellbutrin first BEFORE YOU RESORT TO STIMULANTS like Ritilan, Concerta or Adderall. The fact that heart disease is in your family puts her at even greater risk I would imagine since that's the same boat I am in. I have actually heard that Straterra does wonders for children but may not be as good for adults. Try those two meds first -they are both to treat ADHD and will hopefully be helpful and safe for Kaytlyn.
HBone & JeaniS--
HBONE, okay, let's see, I have read a lot of articles but those stats I believe did come from the FDA's website Division of Pharmacovigilance and Epidemiology. You can also try www.pychealth.com and put in the name of the drug to search for info. on
JEANIE- Both Ritilan and Adderall are considered stimulants that contain amphetamine. In ADHD people, they do not really speed you up they actually slow us down enough in our thought process to have more self control and focus better and complete things. HOWEVER, IT STILL HAS THE EFFECTS OF SPEED (AMPHETAMINES) ON OUR BODIES, PARTICULARLY THE HEART IS VULNERABLE.I know that Adderall (and I think Ritilan too) are controlled substances and just found out last night that they are in the same class as COCAINE. According to the FDA it is a class C drug because it has such a high potential for abuse and addiction. This is also something that was DENIED to me by my trusted psychiatrist who prescribed it. Adderall has been around for over 20 years now and was originally introduced into society very early on as a DIET drug. It is being used to treat ADHD today. I guess this may explain why I could literally go for days without really eating and still feel energetic and "fine". I am now 102 pounds, 5 feet 4 inches tall-I lost 14 pounds this last stint with the medicine after I stopped nursing my baby and went back on again before all the cardiac stuff started happening.
PLEASE, JeaniS, watch this loss of appetite effect with ANY 5 year old little girl as her body and brain are developing and changing at an tremendous rate . I personally would NEVER give a child this medicine-there simply hasn't been enough studies to show that it's NOT harmful and too many to show that it has serious risks. Many of the sudden cardiac deaths listed were children aged 14 and under. I do not know your situation but at 5 years old, your granddaughter, may be just adjusting to kindergarten or changes in the family. There are many different situations that resemble ADHD that are in fact not that at all. Remember, the troublesome symptoms have to affect EVERY aspect of her life ALL the time to be ADHD. This means school, home, church, sports, friends, etc. You cannot turn on and off symptoms of a real disease right? Just something to chew on...best of luck to you out there-keep in touch.
HBONE-(sorry I keep skipping around...ADD...)
As far as how I feel now off the adderall-I'm not going to lie to you, I feel sluggish, lost and insecure. I am back to being "messy minded" again.However, I truly believe that much of the fatigue is because of my cardiac problems. I was sad to realize that for me it wasn't just about stopping the Adderall and getting better. Whatever has happened to my heart is IRREVERSIBLE-I am on 2 cardiac meds each day now and since they slow my fast heart rate down, they make me feel tired. If you decide to get off the Adderall which I pray you do, you can wean yourself so the withdrawal is not so bad. You may feel yucky and down for a couple of days as your body adjusts, but it will pass. Drink lots of water and eat good things, vitamins too. It is great that you are an excerciser! In the end, that may have saved your heart. As far as the ultrasound getting covered, tell them you are having palpitations, they will probably order it through your doc. then it will be covered.
I know just what you ,mean about the energy though-boy was I ever a dynamo on the medicine!!! I could have a "To Do" list of 20 things and EVERY single one would get done! I was SUPER wife, SUPER stay at home mom of 3 little boys, and SUPER part time social worker for my clients. But looking back, it wasn't worth what I am facing now with my heart, not one day. There will always be things to do, what matters is watching my kids grow up and enjoying the many roles that God has given me. I am trying new things now to cope with that ever frustrating ADD...color coding, limiting my lists to things I know I can accomplish so that I don't lose my confidence, trying to plan ahead, even though that's hard. Just little stuff that frazzled me like getting all the boys dressed in teh morning...my 3 year old hates to get dressed, I don't know why! So, it's agony every morning-well with the help of a friend who has ADD and is not on meds, I now put him in "pj"'s at night that are really soft cotton short and shirt outfits that he can wear the next day WALA! He wakes up DRESSED! Sounds dumb, but there are ways to help ourselves without these medications. If you feel like you really need the help, I know a couple of folks on Wellbutrin and they are very happy with it so far; very little side effects and NO AMPHETAMINE. Take care and let me know how ya are!
HBONE- I forgot to tell you (ADD again!) that I was only on 10 mg. blue tablet once a day. I was actually perscribed it 2 x a day but the second dose kept me up at night so I stopped. I tried the XR for 2 days at one point about a year ago but it did the same thing to me so I stopped and went back to the regular 10mg. tablet.Janah,
My grandaughter has all the symptoms and it does effect every part of her life, including school, home, friends and even sleep. We did not want to put her on medicine but it has came to the point where we didn't think we had a choice. Now I am worried about the side effects, especially the heart damage. Heart desease runs in own family as it is. I am 47 years old and going for heart surgery this Tuesday. The last thing my grandaughter needs is to have a medicine increase her chances of heart problems. I do not know what to do. Kaytlyn can not continue through life without something to help with the ADHD. What do I do?
I spoke with our physician about this and he said one of the biggest problems with stimulants is that doctors don't start low and go slow. He said using a low dose and titrating slowly is the key to managine ADHD is the lowest sideeffects. He prescribed the Methylin Chewable TAblets. I would recommend this medicine for any kids that are younger or have any problems swallowing pills.I would like to see your sources, so far all you have offered is antidotal hearsay. shinsetu_hito38264.8993634259I spoke with our physician about this and he said one of the biggest problems with stimulants is that doctors don't start low and go slow. He said using a low dose and titrating slowly is the key to managine ADHD is the lowest sideeffects
Thats absoltuely correct that the dose should start low and tritrated slowly and thats why I always recommend to parents that when they seek a physciain, seek one who is trained in diagnosing and treating childhood disorders. Pediatricians are not qualfied nor do they have the knoweldge necessary to manage ADHD. A phychiatrist wil start with the lowest dose possible and then based on the response or effect, the mediication will be raised and in some cases lowered or changed until the maxium benefit is acheived with the least amount of side effects.
The one thing that I do not understand is why the doctors do not check for heart problems prior to prescribing these drugs. The psy doctors do not monitor blood pressure or heartrate" HELLO" why is this? I have a heart doc and he does an echo of my heart every couple of years. I have Mitral Valve Prolapse and on Adderall my heart sounds better to him. I have a strong beat and the rate is about the same (100 bpm). I will continue to get the echos to check for damage. Also, many women have mitral valve prolapse at birth and never know if you have never had an echo you may be one of the 1 in ten of us women who were born with Mitral Valve Prolaspe. I do not say this to reduce anything you said because I value what you wrote..I just do not understand why the psyc docs do not do any kind of heart tests or send you to a cardiac doc to monitor you if you are on these drugs.hmmm....o.k...now i'm worried
..i've been on Adderall XR30mg for a little over 2 months...i've been feeling wonderful, wishing i had this med years ago...but now that i've read your post, i'm gonna talk to my Dr...thank you so much for sharing your story
...
take care of yourseld and God Bless....
Hey all,
Dont want to scare anyone, but here is my daughters story.Kendra was placed on adderall 10mg in the am and 5mg at noon.She was on this med for around 2 months when I had the scare of my life.I am a Registered Nurse and had worked 13 hours this day, when I got home the kids was already asleep. I went in to kiss them and tell them good-night.This is when I noticed Kendras chest was pounding, I got my stethoscope and listened to her heart. Her resting heart rate was 160!!!! I woke her and asked her if her chest was hurting anytime during that day, she said no, but she was complaining of shortness of breath.I called her doc the next day for a ER visit. This is what he told me- He said that many deaths had been related to adderall...sudden cardiac arrest, he also told me that when adderall and clonidine(for sleep) is mixed that the chances are doubled. He jerked her off the med and started her on concerta36mg. He also said that anytime that a child or adult with ADHD is on any type of stimulant that EKG's are recommended every six months. She has ben on concerta for two years and doing well!!! EKG's are normal,thank GOD! Also at age 8 she only weighed 40 pounds, now at age 10 she weighs 63 pounds. As a patient you need to be informed and advocate for your health. Good luck to all
janah3:
You all need to be careful not to spread panic.
· An ADHD brain lacks adequate levels of two neurotransmitter chemicals: Dopamine and Norepinephrine.
· Without adequate levels of these two chemicals the brain is unable to successfully activate messages, so they can travel to their intended destinations in the nervous system.
· The brain already produces and releases neurotransmitter chemicals, including Dopamine and Norepinephrine through naturally occurring processes, on an ongoing basis.
· An ADHD brain uses these same natural processes as well, but at a much slower-moving pace. So, there is never quite enough stored Dopamine or Norepinephrine.
· Adderall is a medication that works as a stimulant. It prompts the brain to increase its momentum in carrying out the production and release process of neurotransmitter chemicals.
· As part of a “tidying-up” process following the release of chemicals and their journey across the synapse, any neurotransmitter vesicles that are still intact are reabsorbed into the axon terminal. Here, they will wait again to be released. In addition, some receptors have the job of “taking up” any residual neurotransmitter chemicals still remaining in the synapse. These will be used as starting materials to make new neurotransmitters.
· Straterra is a medication that works as a reuptake inhibitor. Strattera stops the clean-up receptors from taking up any remaining Dopamine or Norepinephrine vesicles or residual chemicals.
· The ongoing result, with either of these meds, is adequate levels of Dopamine and Norepinephrine in the brain, giving it the ability to successfully activate messages, so they can travel to their intended destinations in the nervous system, without being interrupted or disabled.
How do you weigh the 'pros' and 'cons'?
· You might take the following into consideration: If you are considering not taking medicine because it could potentially ‘diminish’ the quality of your life in the long run, due to side effects that target other areas (i.e. cardiac complications, etc.), then you are most likely cognitively functional enough not to have to be on the medicine in the first place.
--Also, as far as your weight loss goes: Even my 9yr. old understands that she needs to eat a balanced diet no matter what-- and she is on Adderall/35mg.daily. I hardly think you are physically unable to eat just b/c you might not feel hungry.
·It is important to remember why Adderall and Ritalin are called "controlled substances". These medications are required by law to be used with careful monitoring and compliance-- thus the word 'controlled'.
· In regard to Adderall being in the 'same class as Cocaine', and the FDA labeling it a 'class C 'drug because it has a high potential for abuse and addiction:
· Yes, the brain responds to Adderall similarly to the way it would respond to Cocaine-- but on a much smaller scale! Many undiagnosed ADHD people end up self-medicating with cocaine; and most report that in the first phase of using cocaine , they were full-functioning for the first time! Again, this is why Adderall is required by law to be used with careful monitoring and compliance-- thus the term, 'controlled substance'. The only way to become addictedto a Rx Medication like Adderall, is if you make the decision at some point to abuse it.
· There are some who reach a point where they have no quality of life left, and risking future health-related complications by taking medicine like Adderall is just not how it is looked at, at the time. These are the ones who take medicine like Adderall, or Ritalin because it gives them back their lives. Taking meds like these is not an issue for them, because in these cases the meds are life saving—which is entirely different from life changing.
--WRW ‘04
bfly2B38257.0205787037
Thank you bfly - this is how I see the whole thing too. Meds are a last resort when you feel life can not be coped with with counselling and/or family support.
These medications have been scientifically studied and trialled and science has given us a reprieve.
I personally dont use medications (but if you read some of my threads - you might think I need it 
), because my issues do not handicap my life, except on a occassion. Then I will seek medication help.
I do not fear the side effects of medications, I fear living an unhappy life.
Please let us know Janah, prayers for you dear.[QUOTE=JeaniS]My 5 year old Grandaughter was put on this medication yesterday. What can you tell me? [/QUOTE]
Jean, I do not know your grandaughters symptoms but my daughter has ADHD/ODD and she takes Clonidine. The Clonodine is an adult blood pressure med but in tiny doses can slow a child down so that he/she can control impulses and concentrate. I did not want to put her on Ritalin either. she is only 4.
[QUOTE=Dixiepeep][QUOTE=JeaniS]My 5 year old Grandaughter was put on this medication yesterday. What can you tell me? [/QUOTE]
Jean, I do not know your grandaughters symptoms but my daughter has ADHD/ODD and she takes Clonidine. The Clonodine is an adult blood pressure med but in tiny doses can slow a child down so that he/she can control impulses and concentrate. I did not want to put her on Ritalin either. she is only 4.
[/QUOTE]Medication should not be the only Solution:
I have a child diagnosed with ADHD, his taking Ritalin and he is in ESE (Exceptional Student education). His mayor problem is reading & comprehension. He has improved, but he is not in the level where he is supposed to be for his age & grade. I'm worry that this situation can lower (even more) his self-esteem, for not been able to get the same achievements as other. This is frustrating for students, for parents & even for teachers. Parents are blamed; Children are blamed or labeled. Schools are blamed. This is a neurobiological problem. This is nobody's fault. But, we all can do something, let put pressure in our political leaders so these kids can get more help. I think by preparing a special program/classes for this kind of disability (with psychologists, neurologists, teachers and parents input)Having these kids in a full time (separate) school with a fully trained personal in this matter & where they don't see themselves as “retarded” because the rest are doing great and they are getting D's or F's, will help so much! If the government has money for special schools & programs for "gifted" students, why not to invest in those who are in a "bigger" academic need. In my opinion everyone will benefit from this, even students who are not ADHD. Medication should not be the only solution, after all, they have side effects, too.
Dixiepeep-
I fully agree with you that the psychs. should take a couple of minutes to checvk pulse and blood pressure as well on these meds. It's INEXCUSABLE that they don't question your potential risk for heart problems such as family history, etc.
The mitra valve prolapse is definitely something I was born with HOWEVER I experienced no symptoms or problems with it UNTIL after taking the Adderall for 3 1/2 years and having worsening events of dizziness and racing heart. It's that my prolapse went to mild to moderate with symptoms. The SVT and the arrythmia are definitely not normal. I am going to a Electrical Cardiologist tomorrow for some more tests, possibly a cardiac cathetorization. That should show if there has been any real damage to my heart and how long it's been there. I will let everyone know when I get the results as they will be important to support and deny my doc's theory that it was due to the amphetamine in adderall. Thansk for your response!!!!!
Dear Chris-
Thanks so much for the encouragement-let me know what your doc. says --go in with a list of questions... Janah
Medication should not be the only solution, after all, they have side effects, too.
Medication is not used as a solution. It is one of the many tools used to help a child cope with the everyday issues of ADHD. ADHD medications have side effects just like any other medication one might take and for a person who doesnt have any other preexisiting conditions or health issues, the right medication at the right dose does not have earth shattering side effects. However, untreated ADHD can have earth shattering consequences in the long run. Not every child needs medication but for those who do, it is given because havng ADHD is a quality of life issue. ADHD medication will not make a child smarter but will allow the child to maintain focus thus allowing the child to meet the full potential they are truly capable of. The government should invest more money into educating those educators who are consistantly clueless and as a result of such ignorance contribute to the debilitation of our chidlrens self esteem. ADHD children have social and emotional needs and when they are not met, they decline academically and as they get older, spiral downward in other areas of life as well. The solution lies witin educating people and I do agree that the government should provide the most funding for children with special needs as they are the children with the most needs.
HI everybody,
my name is Alex,mother of 9 year old Mikey who took meds for almost 6 years,he took adderall XR for 3 years. When he started on meds nobody realy told us about the side effects it was more like ok he has adhd/add here is the medication for it if you have any problems with it come back and we try something else. I stoped the meds 4 months ago i wanne tell you why, here is my sons story: My husband is in the military we are in Germany right now Mikey goes to an american elemantry school, before we moved from West Point NY we wanned to make sure that we will move to a place where the school can provide everything our son needs. OK we came here and after the first week of school we started to wonder because nobody had us called in for a meeting to talk about Mikey's special needs so we called in to set up a meeting. Well what can i say, before the meeting even started his classroom teacher told us nobody had told her that he is special needs,after the first week of school she knew something wasn't right so she went to check on his paperwork and thats how she found out. We ask the people in school how this could happend the answer was "wasn't our fault we didn't have the paperwork on him because the Army lost it or never send it to us".Before we left West Point the school told us how important it is to set up the same program in the new school since it worked very good at there school, but what can i say new school new people and how we found out pretty soon they never had anything like that before. It took them weeks to set up something ( they wanned to do it there way) the teacher had no idea about adhd/add it took them i don't how long to get a special ed and to set up the program! Long story short the school year went bad,they didn't tell us if something happend but when it came to the meetings we had the big boom thats when they told us about the bad behaviors he had,stuff he hadn't done in a long time. We ask them to let us know if something happend and how important it is that we know so we can tell the doctor,but nothing changed. Evertime we called or ask how he was doing they told us he doing fine! But the worst thing came end of last school year, one time the school called around 9:30 to tell me that Mikey wasn't feeling good and i should come in to pick him up,he wasn't in the nurses office no he was in his classroom thats where i found out what happend, his special ed told me that he never made to the classroom on this morning, from the bus he went to the bathroom he was sitting on the floor for more than an hour they didn't care to call to see where he is, later they told us its not in there hands to make sure the child is in school or not ,anyway the special ed called the boy who found Mikey in the bathroom he told me Mikey was on the floor , he went to get the teacher and thats when they called me.The second thing happend four weeks before the summer brake got a call from school "Mikey past out they called the ER they will come to pick him up" In the ER i found out he was past out for 15 min before they called in, we live 20 min away from the hospital when they called i had to get dressed and drive all the way in ,i was there almost the same time like he was. The ER is maybe 5 min from the school! The doc later told me that he doesn't understand the school every adult should know that its not normal for an 8 year old boy to pass out like that! The teacher told me that she has seen Mikey a lot of times sitting on his desk looking in a big black hole not responding to anything a lot of times he told them he wasn't feeling good that he was dizzy, all the stuff the doc ask when we had our check up, i said no of course because i didn't know that he had problems! We had a meeting after that and of course it wasn't the schools fault, no the vice principal told me nobody knew about Mikey's meds, but that wasn't true i had 3 people at this meeting who told her they know what kind of meds he is taking and that everybody should know because it's in his paperwork and we talked about it at the meetings we had before.After it happend Mikey's brain got checked ,nothing, the doc told me its easier to find out what it doesn't is than to find out what it is,but nothing like ok we should stop the meds till we know what it is,no for him it is more important how he is in school. I started to look around looking for information and found storys about children who took adhd/add meds and died that was the first time i realiced what i had done to my child, i started to watch him and found some stuff i didn't like.It's not that i have seen some side effects before, like not eating,very thin ,bad dreams i told the doc but he said that's ok and i trusted him,don't ask me why! After all this happend i couldn't sleep anymore i checked on him every hour just to make sure he was ok ,when he was sleeping i could see his heard pounding very fast, i'm not a doc but i knew that wasn't a good signed it's not a good thing for an adult to have that and we talking about a child ! Just because the child doesn't show any singes like that at the check up doesn't mean that everything is fine!Nobody told me that i found out later myself! I stoped the meds and thats where i found out about more side effects,with the meds he was in his room most of the time, he didn't care to do anything with us, i was ok with that we where thinking maybe thats the way he is. The first two days without the meds was a very hard time for Mikey and for me.I realiced i was more used to it than he was. Than he started to talk more he wanned to go outside and play,he was much more open for new things he showed emotions i haven't seen in a long time, he was happy,he smiled he played with his little sister he started to care about stuff all that didn't happend with the meds(Oh by the way the school had problems with that also,that i don't care about anything)I looked at the side effects and yes thats a side effect too! The school started he had new teachers i called to let them know that he's not on meds anymore,after a week we had the first meeting and again the program wasn't set the new people had no idea about Mikey and all i heard from the people from last year was" oh sorry it was my fault, i didn't tell them"! Before school started i had no problems with him just the normal stuff like non adhd/add children make. But since school started i had calles from school almost every day, he was home for more than a week, i made that decision because the plan he was suppost to get wasn't set and nothing worked out, i know how important it is for my son to have the same routine every day but this didn't happend. I start wondering why it worked at home(the week he was home i made schoolwork with him,no problems) Most of the time he's out of his classroom working in smaller groups but even there he made problems(behavior he had with the meds also),yesterday i had to get him ,the rest of the week he will stay home again, i have a meeting on friday and i know they wanne have him back on meds even if i think it has more to do with them than him being off meds.If anybody has something to share please let me know! Sorry i'm german so my writing isn't perfect ! Alex
www.kats-korner.com/health/ritalin.html
Please read and comment, and extract of the above article below.
As of 1993, there had been 4 sudden deaths associated with Norpramin (desipramine), a member of the family of tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) and a common alternative to Ritalin, in the treatment of ADHD. In 1995, Werry, of New Zealand, called for an embargo of desipramine in children, but was shouted down by Biederman, et al, of the Harvard-Massachusetts General Hospital, Pediatric Psychopharmacology Group. To date, desipramine- and other TCA-related, sudden, cardiac deaths have risen to16, most of them in normal children said by school teachers, to have ADHD.
As of May, 1996, there were 13 cases of liver failure leading to death or liver transplant from Cylert (pemoline), touted to be the "safest," of the stimulants.
Of 2,993 adverse reaction (AR) reports concerning "Ritalin" or "methylpenidate" listed by the FDA’s Division of Pharmacovigilance and Epidemiology (DPE), from 1990 to 1997, there were 160 deaths and 569 hospitalizations--36 of them life-threatening. One hundred twentysix (126) were cardiovascular occurrences, and 949 central or peripheral nervous system occurrences. There were 6 cases of "cardiomyopathy," 12 of "arrhythmia," 7 of "bradycardia," (slow pulse), 5 of "bundle branch block," (impairment of conduction apparatus of the heart), 4 of "EKG abnormality," 5 "extrasystole," (heart rhythm abnormalities), 3 "heart arrest," 2 heart failure, right," 10 "hypotension," (low BP), 1 "myocardial infarction," 15 "tachycardia" (rapid pulse).
While many of Ritalin’s cardiac side effects might be due to its action on the sympathetic nervous system, it may bind to and alter cellular architecture, leading to symptoms and signs that are secondary to actual structural damage.
Ritalin is known to cause cardiac arrhythmia, tachycardia and hypertension. Ritalin and other amphetamines can interfere with the body phospholipid (complex fat) chemistry causing the accumulation of abnormal membranes visible with an electron microscope. Such abnormalities were seen in an adult treated with Ritalin for 4 ½ years. A heart muscle biopsy was obtained during coronary bypass surgery. Fischer (1972) concluded: "Although the patient was exposed to a variety of different drugs, we feel the methylphenindate (Ritalin) should be considered as the incriminating factor since this agent is amphetamine-related."
Henderson & Fischer (1994) next exposed experimental mice and rats to MP (Ritalin), and found identical membrane proliferation to that in the patient described by Fischer (1972). Moreover, they found that "The MP (Ritalin) doses used in the experimental rodents fell within the range of therapeutic dosage prescribed for patients with attention deficit disorders (ADD/ADHD)."
Other such molecules include fenfluramine (Pondimin)—the ‘fen’ of ‘fen-phen’—the weight reduction compound found to cause heart valve defects, leading to it’s being withdrawn from the market. There have been reports of reversible cardiomyopathy with methamphetamine (Desoxyn, Gradumet); of cardiomyopathy with dextro-amphetamine (Dexedrine) ); of left ventricular failure following a single, i.v. dose of amphetamine, and of sudden reversible cardiomyopathy with fenfluramine (Pondimin) and mazindol (a weight loss drug).
In The Pathology of Drug Abuse, Karch writes: "Amphetamine’s adverse effects on the heart are well established …(sharing) common mechanisms with cocaine toxicity…cardiomyopathy seems to be a complication of amphetamine abuse more often than cocaine abuse…The clinical history in most of these cases is consistent with arrhythmic sudden death (as in Stephanie Hall). Reports of amphetamine-related sudden death were first published shortly after amphetamine became commercially available" (late 1930’s, about the same time Bradley discovered the paradoxical, calming effect of amphetamines that has lead to todays Ritalin epidemic).…Stimulant-related cardiomyopathy has occurred in association with amphetamine, methamphetamine…and methylphenidate (Ritalin)…In all cases there was acute onset of heart failure associated with decreased cardiac output…"
Good Morning All,
My son is 8, and we are working on taking him off of his meds as well for the same reasons as stated by Mikesmom. We had treated him before with homeopathic constitutional remedies (they treat the entire body - not just symptoms), and we are going back to that now. They work if you are diligent, and are committed to finding the right remedy for your child. You still have to have the same schedule, and work with your child as normal to redirect their attention, or behavior, but the remedies allow them to be themselves, and be happy little kids. We all seem to have similar stories, and I relate and empathise with all of you. When we went to homeopathic remedies before, there were some things we should all be aware of in reltion to your child/self coming off of the meds. The worst rebounding I have ever seen or experienced. When we took my son off of the meds, he rebounded horribly. He would get so out of control physically that I would have to hang on to him, and lay with him, sometimes atop of him to hold him. I would tell him that it was ok, that Mommy is going to be in control until he can. When he feels he is in control, he can tell mom, and I will let go. He understood, and it gave him that security to know that he wasn't going through this by himself. When he was done, and under control, we would lay together and sometimes cry, and then sleep for a while because we were both so physically and emotionally exhausted. I am sure some of yuo have gone through this even on the meds. I have not taken him off of his meds completely this time yet, but by the end of the week we will do that, and I am sure have a rough weekend of it. He is bigger now, so I am not sure how well I can help to physically control him - may have to get dad involved with that if it gets to that point, but we will do the best we can.
I really encourage you all to look into alternatives to meds. I happened to catch Dr. Phill the other night, and his show was on this point exactly. Good show, I was glued to the T.V. go to his site www.drphill.com , there are some books on his site rgarding this issue. Here is also another website where there is a book called Ritaline Free Kids, and some other books on angry kids etc. This site is a homeopathic site, and I would encourage anyone who even thinks this might work, to contact these homeopaths, and ask them questions. Never hurts to ask questions, and find out what you can. www.healthyhomeopathy.com Doesn't cost anything either. We all have to do what we feel is best for our children. Many of God's Blessings and prayers to you all.
Teresa 
mikeysmum,
so sorry to hear of your son's troubles. this is insane and i can't imagine the anger and sadness you must feel. i hope you continue to go against the school. you are so right and he is so lucky to have you in his corner!
hey teresa!!
hats off to you in your pursuit of a med-free approach!! i will say that it is not easy or quick (usually), taking the homeopathy route. it takes time and the right homeopath to find what works best.
here's another website to add to teresa's www.runboard.com/bhomeopathywellnesscenter
also great homeopaths, and nice people here too.
homeopathy is not free, but compared to doctor's fees and scripts, it is a fraction of the cost. good/ethical homeopaths will charge a one-time fee for their casetaking. some charge for follow up visits. mine does not! they may or may not supply you with the remedies. if not, they are extra. ish. they should be able help locate where to purchase them.
i can't say enough about how amazing homeopathy is!! i have my son back (yes, he can still be a pain at times) and we have done it without meds.
i know it is scary to try a different way other than the meds. i was scared too. but look at the things that are happening here! luckily, it doesn't seem to happen to all children on meds but, how do you know that it won't happen to yours? just a thought...
kppy
Reply to LOVEMYSON~
· Dr.Phil’s “wastebasket diagnosis” theory is disproved by ADHD individuals who are not diagnosed until adulthood:
· (go to http://boards.drphil.com and click on ‘The Show’ ~I think?—it aired on 9/28/04: Parenting With Pills)
· It is important to consider the fact that there are many adults who take Rx medications for Adult ADHD. Many are educated professionals such as Nurses, Attorneys, Teachers, and Physicians.
· These are treated ADHD Adults who are in helping professions and are successfully making positive differences in the lives of those who depend on them. Without their ADHD medications it is reasonable to consider the probability of these adults making potentially dangerous job-related errors.
· Sadly, they are the untreated ADHD children who never did experience an onset of symptoms that was recognizable as ADHD to teachers, family or friends. These undiagnosed ADHD children have grown up to become undiagnosed ADHD adults who are often seen as under achievers for having tried and failed at so many things, so many times. As a result of going undiagnosed, many ADHD adults struggle with a secondary disorder like anxiety or depression.
· The presenting symptom in these adults is not hyperactivity—but rather a severe and sudden decline in their ability to function cognitively. They are not seen as ‘hyperactive’ individuals whose level of function would improve with better parenting; and who ‘back in the day’ would have just been called “brats”, as Dr. Phil said in regard to Hyperactive children.
· This time, he speaks of what he simply does not know.
· There are some children who experience such a severe onset of symptoms that their quality of life becomes severely compromised. It is only those who have taken this out of context who see risking future health-related complications caused by taking medications now--like Adderall or Ritalin-- as “parenting with pills”. The children in these cases take medicine like Adderall, or Ritalin because it gives them back their lives. Sons and daughters taking stimulants for ADHD symptoms that are completely life interrupting, are lucky to have parents with such strength of heart… because in these cases the medicine is life saving—which is entirely different from life changing.
· If you are considering not having your child take medicine because it could potentially ‘diminish’ the quality of his life in the long run, due to side effects that target other health-related areas (i.e. cardiac complications, growth-rate, etc.), then your child is most likely cognitively functional enough not to have to be on the medicine in the first place.
Dr. Phil,
While I agree completely that there are children who are misdiagnosed and treated unnecessarily for ADHD, there are at least as many who are accurately diagnosed and properly treated for ADHD by qualified Psychiatrists. An informed decision cannot be made, in regard to whether or not ADHD is a “wastebasket diagnosis”, if the main focus of your show is not a true representation of the majority of diagnosed ADHD cases.
Dr. Phil, if you are confident that you are right about this, then why not present all sides? Please consider a follow-up show on this topic and trust in your own ability to articulate yourself, and site your references, expert advisors, etc. If you do your job well, as this world has seen you do, then parents will be able to weigh the facts and make an informed decision about their own children I think you are making an awesome difference in the lives of many, many people. Please consider following up on this one.
Sincerely, Bfly2B
bfly2B38375.7540046296
Kppy,
I appreciate your support. You and I have discussed this issue in PM. I am for the homeopathic route, and it does take time. I do keep in mind though, that not everyone is for this rout, and we ALL need to keep our childrens best interest at heart. We as mother and fathers have a tough time of doing what is morally right in this world, or even trying to raise our children the way we were raised with a firm hand and voice. Others always try to but in, and tell you what to do (schools, governments etc.) they even go as far as calling authorities if you appear to not be doing what you should for your children. They don't know the entire situation, and we all need to protect that. I support everyone who feels what they are doing is in the best interest of their child, or what works best for them. I do not live your lives, and so cannot tell you what to do. I can only offer that I have experienced both homeopathic remedies, and meds on two different occasions, andby far feel the homeopathy is best for our family. Again my best wishes to all on their journey for the best thing for their child/family.
BOBEL~ You articulated yourself quite well; and I hope your words will be read by many. Good for you for taking the time to post a message that is not filled with isolated examples of deaths caused by ritalin, adderall, etc. Such examples are used in an attempt to cause people to form generalized fears about AD/HD stimulants. I'm pretty sure that term is used when a person has been bitten by ONE dog in his lifetime; yet develops a "generalized fear" of ALL dogs... truly believing ALL dogs bite. Your words really show that this issue is only as complex as we make it. Good luck to you! ~bfly2B
Janah, I hope that this post finds you well. I think that your cardiologist owes you some clarification. Based on what you have told us in your post, I can tell you that you do not have 3 different heart conditions, but rather 1 condition stemming from the other. The valve prolapse (I am curious as to which valve) would be the primary problem and the supraventricular tachycardia (which IS the arrythmia) is the secondary problem. Adderall probably did not cause the prolapsed valve, but because you likely already had the prolapsed valve, it predisposed you towards developing the arrythmia (the SVT) in response to the stimulant effects of the Adderall. In other words, you likely had an undiagnosed cardiac condition before you ever took Adderall, which is extremely unlikely to cause these effects in a normal, healthy heart. The fact that you are experiencing such severe symptoms during these arrhythmias suggests to me that you may have an underlying, moderate-to-severe cardiac condition (cardiomyopathy?) as these arrythmias don't commonly cause such severe symptoms without the presence of furthur problems. In case you're wondering, I work in cardiac medicine. As far as the formulation, it is not 4 different amphetamines, but rather, a single-entity amphetamine formulated with 4 different salts which release the medication at varying increments of time, leading to the effect of extended-release. I am sorry that you have, at such a young age, been diagnosed with this problem and I wish you the best.
Becky, I am sorry to hear about your daughters adverse effects and hope that all is well now. I was puzzled when you said that your daughter was taken off Adderall because of its stimulant effects and placed on Concerta, since this too is a stimulant medication. Hopefully, your daughter has not experienced further problems. Consider that she may have a predisposition for one reason or another. If you daughter again develops a rapid heart rate, you should not hesitate to contact your pediatrician at that time and not the next a.m. If you cannot get a response from the doctor at that time, you should take your daughter to the E.R. without hesitation. Hopefully, you will not have to deal with that situation again.
ADDRN wrote:
The fact that you are experiencing such severe symptoms during these arrhythmias suggests to me that you may have an underlying, moderate-to-severe cardiac condition (cardiomyopathy?) as these arrythmias don't commonly cause such severe symptoms without the presence of furthur problems. In case you're wondering, I work in cardiac medicine. As far as the formulation, it is not 4 different amphetamines, but rather, a single-entity amphetamine formulated with 4 different salts which release the medication at varying increments of time, leading to the effect of extended-release.
Thank you so much for supplying such accurate information as parents come here and read certains post and become quite alarmed. While we all should always question and check sources of information, in order to make an informed decision we need to have accurate information. Regardless of what medication a person takes , if there is a preexisting condition, the medication may trigger a severe reaction.
My pleasure!I have Lone atrial fibulation and take ritalin
I was diagnosed with the AFIB 4 years ago long before I was on Ritalin when I woke up with a pulse irregular and going 170 beats a minute. I am on tambacor for it. I couldnt tolerate beta Blockers my pulse is slow to begin with and on them it dropped to about 40 beats a minute. I go to the gym about 2 hrs a day 5 days a week now and at the time i was diagnosed was running 5 miles 4 times a week. Sometimes arrthymias are no big deal.
The Ritalin hasnt given me so much as a skipped beat. Your problem may have nothing to do with your medication
COFFEE triggered more skipped beats than the ritalin has. I stopped Caffeine when I started Ritalin Once you know you get Arythmias i think you become very focused on your heart beat. I was terrified at first but once the stress test came through I relaxxed. I stopped drinking it when i started ritalin.
I told my cardiologist even if it did trigger and event or two once in a while it was worth the trade off to get control of my life. I see him next week. It looks like there was no trade off.
One thing some Dr's dont do when startiong patients on ADHD meds is get a baseline EKG so changes can be seen and the med discontinued if there is an adverse effect.
The post above referenceing the numbers of ritalin related problems sounds bad. I believe when you remove from the equation the number of those hospital admissions that involved ritalin and other drugs or Ritalin ingested in a way other than as prescribed the numbers drop. The 160 unexplained deaths on Adderal sounds horrid till you ask yourself how many unexplained deaths were there in the general populace when you look at an equal number of people. I don't know that r number and I guarentee the anti medication sites aren't telling it too you.
I know my body. A large starbucks gives me breakthrough irregular beats. 30 MG of ritalin a day hasnt. I am not in the least concerned about takin it.