The increase in self-diagnoses of ADHD and use of over-the-counter medication

"I think I have ADHD." This is a phrase that many people may have heard — or even said. Self-diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is common on the internet. This raises awareness about the use of medications without medical prescriptions.

Search for medicine Vyvanse soared in 2022, according to data of Google Trends. The drug, derived from amphetamine, is mainly used in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

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It turns out that, as it is a central nervous system stimulant, Vyvanse fell into Brazilian taste. It is not uncommon to find people sharing their impressions and results after using the medicine. The most attracted audiences are executives and students, who seek better performance during their long work and study days.

Risks and lack of medication

Psychiatrist Gusttavo Fernandes explains that the erratic use of Vyvanse presents several risks. “Increased blood pressure, arrhythmia, palpitation, insomnia, agitation, loss of appetite, exacerbated anxiety and irritability are some of the symptoms.”

According to the specialist, drugs from the psychostimulant class, such as Venvanse, have the potential for abuse and can cause harm to health. “In addition to the risks and adverse side effects associated with the indiscriminate use of Vyvanse, it is important to highlight that this practice can have an additional negative impact,” he says.

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Unauthorized and unnecessary use of the medication could lead to an increase in demand and a shortage of Venvanse in pharmacies, as has already happened in 2022.

The action harms patients who really need the medication to treat ADHD. In September last year, the Brazilian Attention Deficit Association came to post a reply note to the manufacturer's statement Vyvanse, Takeda, about the lack of medicine in pharmacies.

ADHD self-diagnosis

Another factor that contributes to the high demand for these medications is the ADHD self-diagnosis. In addition to contributing to the unnecessary consumption of medication, this attitude hinders understanding and adequate support for the disorder. “This can lead to a lack of access to professional diagnosis and treatment, resulting in negative consequences for health”, points out the psychiatrist.

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Fernandes also explains that the romanticization of the internet stigmatizes and discredits ADHD, making acceptance and social support difficult. Furthermore, the trivialization of symptoms, driven by videos on TikTok with false or confusing information, leads to an inadequate understanding of the disorder.

“This misinformation reduces the seriousness of ADHD, making it difficult to recognize the need for proper diagnosis and treatment.”

Carrying out a self-diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder — or even taking online tests — and not seeking medical help can present several risks. “It is important to understand that ADHD is a complex neuropsychiatric disorder that requires adequate evaluation and diagnosis by a specialist, such as a psychiatrist or neurologist,” says Fernandes.

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Self-diagnosis can lead to errors in the interpretation of symptoms and an incorrect diagnosis, which results in inappropriate treatment. The lack of follow-up also prevents access to treatment, which may involve psychotherapy and medication. Without this care, psychosocial complications may arise, such as relationship difficulties, academic problems, low self-esteem, anxiety and depression.

“The important thing is for the person to always seek professional help, and never try to consult with 'Dr. Google' or iftomedicate, especially with controlled medicines like Vyvanse”, reports the psychiatrist.

@curtonews

“I think I have ADHD.” This is a phrase that many people may have heard — or even said. Self-diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is common on the internet, which raises awareness about the use of medications without medical prescriptions.

♬ original sound – Curto News

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