Julianna McLeod, a 26-year-old from Ontario, Canada, experienced a severe mental health episode last year while taking Vyvanse, a medication for attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This incident has brought new attention to the potential risks associated with high doses of stimulant medications.
The Incident A Disturbing Experience
McLeod had previously used Vyvanse but paused during her pregnancy. After resuming the medication six months after giving birth, she sometimes took more than the prescribed amount. The result was a troubling episode of psychosis, where she felt euphoric and believed she was uncovering hidden criminal activities. She even thought that someone was drugging her and her baby.
Understanding the Risks What the Study Found
Psychosis and mania are rare but serious side effects of stimulant medications like Vyvanse and Adderall. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has warned about these potential side effects. A new study in The American Journal of Psychiatry has highlighted a significant link: patients taking high doses of amphetamine-based medications had a fivefold increased risk of developing psychosis or mania.
High Dosages More than 40 mg of Adderall, 100 mg of Vyvanse, or 30 mg of dextroamphetamine were associated with increased risks.
Medium Dosages Doses between 20-40 mg of Adderall, 50-100 mg of Vyvanse, or 16-30 mg of dextroamphetamine were linked to a 3.5 times higher risk.
Interestingly, no such risk was found with medications like Concerta or Ritalin, which contain methylphenidate.
The Study’s Origins Uncovering the Link
Dr. Lauren V. Moran, the study’s lead author, noticed an increase in hospitalizations for new psychosis and mania among young people on high doses of stimulants. Her research, based on patient records from 2005 to 2019, aimed to understand the connection between medication dosage and mental health risks.
Current Findings Who Is at Risk?
Higher dosages of stimulant medications are linked to a greater risk of psychosis.
Adults over 23 had higher risks compared to younger patients.
Patients with a family history of psychosis, daily cannabis users, or those taking unprescribed stimulants were at higher risk.
Expert Opinions What Doctors Say
Dr. Max Wiznitzer, a pediatric neurologist, noted that some patients on high doses do not experience problems, suggesting that individual predispositions might play a role. Dr. Sharon Levy, an addiction specialist, emphasized the study’s importance in understanding how high doses of ADHD medications can lead to psychosis.
Moving Forward Future Research and Recommendations
Dr. Moran plans further research using national insurance data to confirm these findings. In the meantime, she advises careful monitoring of patients on medium to high doses of stimulant medications for symptoms of psychosis and mania.
Julianna McLeod’s Recovery A Personal Journey
McLeod was hospitalized and treated with anti-psychotic medication. Although her symptoms gradually improved, it took several months for her to feel normal again. She now takes a lower dose of Adderall and is managing her condition with more caution.
This story underscores the importance of managing ADHD medication dosages carefully and being aware of potential side effects.
More Stories
Understanding America’s Regional Patchwork A Guide to the Key Political Areas
The Electoral College Debate A Closer Look at Its Impact on Modern Elections
November’s Unsettling Tropical Outlook Potential Storms Loom in the Atlantic