ANSWER
Malcolm’s Case as an Argument Against the Use of Amphetamines for ADHD
Suggested Action Mechanism and Suitability
Amphetamines are stimulants of the central nervous system (CNS) that raise dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain. Examples of these include dextroamphetamine and lisdexamfetamine. Amphetamines are useful in treating symptoms of ADHD since these neurotransmitters are essential for focus, attention, and impulse control (Faraone et al., 2021). Amphetamines may help Malcolm pay attention and control his hyperactivity, but because of their stimulating effects on the central nervous system, they may also make him more aggressive and emotionally dysregulated.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Amphetamines Benefits:
quick start to activity, frequently within a few hours of dosage.
Both immediate-release (IR) and extended-release (XR) formulations offer flexible dosing schedules.
demonstrated effectiveness in reducing focus and attention issues associated with ADHD.
Drawbacks:
elevated risk of adverse effects, including cardiovascular problems, appetite suppression, irritability, and insomnia (Briars & Todd, 2016).
Possibility of abuse or dependence, particularly given that it is a Schedule II prohibited substance.
can exacerbate Malcolm’s preexisting impulsivity or aggression, which are issues.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Other Options
For Malcolm, safer alternatives include alpha-2 adrenergic agonists like guanfacine or non-stimulant drugs like atomoxetine.
Benefits:
reduced likelihood of dependency and misuse.
may be soothing, especially for kids who struggle with emotional dysregulation or violence. Drawbacks:
slower rate of action, with results frequently appearing weeks later.
less effective than stimulants at enhancing attention.
Considerations and Adverse Effects
Amphetamines can lead to irritability, elevated heart rate, sleeplessness, and appetite suppression—all of which are serious issues for a developing child like Malcolm. According to him, these advantages must be balanced against the possibility of increasing hostility and mental instability (Childress & Tran, 2021).
Social, Ethical, and Legal Consequences
Legal: Because amphetamines are classified as controlled substances, they must be closely monitored and documented. To avoid abuse, prescribers must make sure that rules are followed.
Ethical: Putting short-term symptom relief ahead of long-term health presents ethical questions because to the possibility of reliance and adverse repercussions.
Social: Malcolm’s self-esteem and social interactions may be impacted by the stigma attached to ADHD drugs, particularly amphetamines.
In conclusion
Amphetamines are less desirable in light of Malcolm’s violent inclinations since they may make them worse. Safer substitutes that prioritize his emotional and social stability in addition to symptom management include non-stimulant choices like atomoxetine or guanfacine.
Citations
Todd, T., and Briars, L. (2016). An examination of the use of medications to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. 21(3), 192–206, Journal of Pediatric Pharmacology & Therapeutics. 10.5863/1551-6776-21.3.192 https://doi.org
Tran, C. Q., and Childress, A. C. (2021). Amphetamine formulations are the main focus of recent advancements in ADHD treatment. Attention Disorders Journal, 25(6), 663–672. The article https://doi.org/10.1177/1087054719840433
Faraone, S. V., Bellgrove, M. A., Biederman, J., Banaschewski, T., Coghill, D., and Zheng, Y. (2021). There are 208 evidence-based conclusions regarding ADHD in the World Federation of ADHD International Consensus Statement. Biobehavioral & Neuroscience Reviews, 128, 789–818. 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.03.022 at https://doi.org
QUESTION
This week, you will present and defend your assigned stance (pro or con) and specific medication for your patient case study scenario with your peers. Within the debate, you will also share your perspective on why the alternative medication class would not be appropriate for the patient case scenario.
case study scenario
Malcolm is a 9-year-old male in the 4th grade at the public elementary school. Malcolm has recently been diagnosed with ADHD, combined presentation. Malcolm struggles with being fidgety and hyperactive; he often gets into trouble at school for blurting out answers, getting out of his desk when he should not be, and hitting other children when upset. Malcolm also has a hard time focusing on anything other than video games at home. His parents report homework takes “all night” though it should only take 30 minutes. Malcolm has assigned chores but often gets distracted. For example, Malcolm was to take out the trash but got distracted in the driveway while taking out the trash and left the full bag in the driveway. He often misplaces the combination code for the lock on the house door.
Please consider the medications and point of view based on your last name as follows:
Amphetamine (Con)
Post your response detailing your argument for the following: 250 words. Apa format
· What is the proposed mechanism of action of the medication(s)? Why might this be appropriate for the patients?
· What are the advantages or disadvantages to your class of medication (options for different administration, length of duration, etc.)?
· What are the advantages or disadvantages to the other medication options?
· What possible side effects or considerations need to be evaluated?
· Provide one example for each consideration—legal, ethical, and social implications—for prescribing the medication category.
Note: Your response needs to be supported by three 3 scholarly peer-reviewed resources located outside of your course learning resources.