Some ADHD Medications May Increase the Risk of Psychosis

If you or your child currently take medicine for ADD/ADHD, the new study published from Harvard Medical School and McLean Hospital shows that certain drugs used to treat the condition may lead to an increased risk of psychosis. 

The study, published in the very selective New England Journal of Medicine, shows that younger patients taking amphetamines (such as Adderall or Vyvanse) were more likely to develop hallucinations, delusional disorder, schizophrenia spectrum disorder, major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, and other major psychotic issues than patients taking methylphenidates, such as Ritalin or Concerta.   This particular study focused on more than 221,000 individuals aged 13 to 25 who have been prescribed these medicines.

CNBC reports that the risk is low, but the concern is that with the rising number of patients getting diagnosed with ADD/ADHD - this issue will become more prevalent not less.  According to the study's author, Dr. Lauren Moran, the use of amphetamines has more than tripled lately.

If you, or your children are taking these medications and you are concerned - talk to your doctor as soon as possible.