Pregnancy & Adderall - ADD / ADHD Message Board

TxDirActr · 07-07-2004, 04:32 PM

I have been taking Adderall for about 18 months with great results. I finally can function like a normal adult. Last week I found out I was pregnant (about 7 weeks) at the ER. I told the doctor, he made a note & that was it. I stopped taking the drug immediately (even though he didn't say anything). I have searched the net & can't really find any information on actual cases of women who took Adderall during pregnancy. I am seeing a doctor tomorrow, but I was wondering if anyone knows anyone or knows where I can find actual case information of adderall taken during pregnancy. I have not been taking the drug for a week now & I am already feeling the affects, and I don't know if I have already harmed the baby by taken the drug for the first 6 weeks of pregnancy. Thanks!

MariaMarchita · 07-07-2004, 09:02 PM

From my research, I've found this:

Clinical studies using mice have shown that amphetamine (Adderall) use during pregnancy has had embryotoxic and teratogenic (causing abnormal development of the embryo) effects.

There has not been adequate research done on humans on the effects of amphetamine use during pregnancy, but there have been some reports of deformities and other problems with fetuses of women using such drugs.

Infants born to mothers dependent on amphetamines have an increased risk of premature delivery and low birth weight

Also, these infants may experience symptoms of withdrawal as demonstrated by dysphoria, including agitation, and significant lassitude.

Adderall is a pregnancy class C drug, meaning that animal studies on this drug show risk to the embryo/fetus, but there are no adequate human studies on its effects during pregnancy. Basically, you cannot rule out risk to your unborn child.

In my opinion, I would stay away from it during your pregnancy.

Good luck and congrats!