Response 2

Need to defend stance for the use of Alpha Adrenergic Agonist drug class and the use of specific medications like (intuniv {guanfacine} or kapvay {clonidine} instead of Amphetamines by supporting or expand on original argument to refute colleague's claims. Work to share additional perspectives on the issue described by your colleague. Responses need to be supported by two (2) scholarly peer-reviewed resources located outside of your course Learning Resources. The following is what the essay defends against: Use of Amphetamines Pro: Amphetamines, such as Adderall and Vyvanse, are stimulant medications commonly used to treat Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). They work by increasing neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain, which helps improve focus, attention, and impulse control in individuals with ADHD. This mechanism of action is appropriate for patients with ADHD because it helps regulate the brain's neurotransmitter levels, which are often imbalanced in individuals with the disorder (Chong et al., 2023). Advantages of amphetamines include their effectiveness in improving ADHD symptoms, their relatively fast onset of action, and the availability of both short-acting and long-acting formulations for individualized treatment plans. They can be administered orally in various dosages to accommodate different patient needs. Long-acting formulations provide extended symptom control throughout the day, reducing the need for multiple doses. Disadvantages of amphetamines include potential side effects such as decreased appetite, insomnia, and increased heart rate and blood pressure. They may also have a potential for misuse and dependence, as they are stimulant medications. Other medication options for ADHD, such as non-stimulant medications like atomoxetine or guanfacine, may be considered for patients who do not respond well to stimulants or have a history of substance abuse (Mechler et al., 2022). Possible side effects that need to be evaluated when prescribing amphetamines include monitoring for changes in appetite, weight, sleep patterns, and blood pressure. Patients should also be monitored for signs of misuse or dependence, as well as psychiatric side effects like anxiety or irritability. Legal implications of prescribing amphetamines include the need to adhere to prescribing regulations and guidelines to prevent misuse or diversion of the medication. Ethical considerations may involve ensuring informed consent and discussing potential risks and benefits with patients and their caregivers. Social implications may include the stigma associated with ADHD and medication use, as well as the impact of medication on school performance and social interactions (Preuss et al., 2023). Con: On the other hand, some potential drawbacks of amphetamines include their potential for abuse and dependence, as well as their side effects like insomnia, decreased appetite, and increased heart rate. Some individuals may also experience mood changes or irritability as a side effect of these medications. Additionally, amphetamines may not be suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions or a history of substance abuse. Alternative medications or non-pharmacological treatments may be considered in these cases. References Chong, T. T., Fortunato, E., & Bellgrove, M. A. (2023). Amphetamines improve the motivation to invest effort in Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. the Journal of Neuroscience/the Journal of Neuroscience, 43(41), 6898–6908. https://doi(dot)org/10.1523/jneurosci.0982-23.2023 Mechler, K., Banaschewski, T., Hohmann, S., & Häge, A. (2022). Evidence-based pharmacological treatment options for ADHD in children and adolescents. Pharmacology & Therapeutics, 230, 107940. https://doi(dot)org/10.1016/j.pharmthera.2021.107940Links to an external site. Preuss, C. V., Kalava, A., & King, K. C. (2023, April 29). Prescription of controlled substances: benefits and risks. StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf. https://www(dot)ncbi(dot)nlm(dot)nih(dot)gov/books/NBK537318/