Although access to prescription stimulants is essential to addressing important clinical needs of patients with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), a new study published in JAMA Psychiatry found that among U.S. adults ages 18 to 64 using prescription stimulants, one-fourth reported misuse, and nearly onetenth had prescription stimulant use disorder. *** Demand for weight-loss medications sold under brand names such as Ozempic and Wegovy continues to surge, with a recent study reporting one in eight Americans has taken or is currently using the drugs to treat diabetes, heart disease or obesity. These drugs are known as glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RA) and include Mounjaro and Zepbound. A study published in Nature Medicine has evaluated health outcomes among more than 2 million people with diabetes taking the popular weight-loss drugs. GLP-1RA drugs were associated with significant benefits to neurological and behavioral health, with reduced risks of seizures and addiction to substances such as alcohol, cannabis, stimulants and opioids. People taking the weight-loss drugs also experienced decreased risks of suicidal ideation, self-harm, bulimia and psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia. The findings also showed a decreased risk of neurocognitive disorders such as Alzheimer’s and dementia. The study also confirmed past research findings detailing the drugs’ potential to lower the risk of heart attack, stroke and other cardiovascular concerns. But the GLP-1RA drugs can negatively affect the pancreas and kidneys. While these adverse effects are uncommon, they can be very serious; physicians must be vigilant for signs of pancreatitis and monitor kidney function among people taking GLP-1RA medications. Kidney problems can occur without symptoms until the condition is at an advanced stage with limited treatment options. ****** Presented as a service to the community by Presented as a service to the community by
Ritter Express Pharmacy 744 S. Mississippi, Suite A • Atoka, OK 889-3353 or 889-MEDS (6337) ***
