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Benefits of ADHD medication outweigh health risks, study finds (www.theguardian.com)

submitted 20 hours ago by [email protected] to c/[email protected]

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Summary

A new international study led by the University of Southampton found ADHD medications cause small increases in blood pressure and heart rate but offer overall benefits that outweigh these risks.

Researchers emphasized careful monitoring, especially for patients with heart conditions. Both stimulant and non-stimulant medications showed similar cardiovascular effects, except guanfacine, which lowered blood pressure.

Experts noted the drugs improve academic performance, reduce mortality risk, and lower chances of anxiety, depression, and substance abuse.

Prescriptions have surged post-pandemic, but misconceptions about ADHD treatments still persist, experts warned.

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[–] remotelove 13 points 20 hours ago (7 children)

Never downplay the risks of amphetamines. They exist and they are real.

Having taken Adderall for the better part of 20 years, I have experienced the gambit of long-term amphetamine use. It's mostly gastrointestinal, if you were curious. Unfortunately, I have had to stop due my resting blood pressure being at +180/110 (that is bad). Without a doubt, Adderall was playing a part in that. I am not overweight, have a decent diet, etc. Still, there are other significant changes I am making as like I said, Adderall played a part in this and wasn't the end all, be all.

But, I do agree with the intent of the article. The benefits are significant when someone is diagnosed properly. Stress and anxiety is just as real, after all.

When taken properly, there is almost no risk of withdrawal issues. I stopped taking them about 2 weeks ago with zero problems. No withdrawal, no cravings. I have been as high as 80mg per day and would currently be at 40mg.

But, I am not you. Everyone reacts differently and has different lifestyles. My point is not to have anyone disregard this post, but realize that "a low chance" is not "no chance".

[–] [email protected] 3 points 18 hours ago (1 children)

Claiming there will be no withdrawal symptoms when taking it properly is factually incorrect.

Just because you didn't experience them doesn't mean others won't. They might not be at the level of meth withdrawals, but they definitely exist.

[–] remotelove 4 points 18 hours ago* (last edited 17 hours ago)

Hence, the first sentence and last paragraph. Everyone reacts differently.

I attempted to insert caveats where applicable. If I missed one in your opinion, I apologize.

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