Case Study for Week 6 Discussion
Patient 1:
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.
Pro Methylphenidate medication assigned to me for this case so you should only focused on the PRO options please
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.
Post your response detailing your argument for the following:
· 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.
## Case Study: Pro Methylphenidate Medication for ADHD
### Mechanism of Action
Methylphenidate is a central nervous system stimulant that works by increasing the levels of certain neurotransmitters, particularly dopamine and norepinephrine, in the brain. These neurotransmitters play a crucial role in regulating attention, behavior, and executive function. By enhancing their activity, Methylphenidate helps to improve focus, reduce impulsive behaviors, and control hyperactivity, making it appropriate for treating ADHD symptoms in Malcolm.
### Advantages of Methylphenidate
– **Effectiveness**: Numerous studies have shown that Methylphenidate is highly effective in managing ADHD symptoms, leading to significant improvements in attention, behavior, and academic performance.
– **Different Formulations**: Methylphenidate is available in various formulations, including immediate-release, extended-release, and long-acting versions. This flexibility allows for tailored treatment plans based on the patient’s specific needs and daily schedule.
– **Rapid Onset**: The medication typically starts working within 30-45 minutes, providing quick relief from symptoms.
### Disadvantages of Methylphenidate
– **Short Duration for Some Formulations**: Immediate-release formulations may require multiple doses throughout the day, which can be inconvenient and lead to compliance issues.
– **Potential for Abuse**: As a stimulant, Methylphenidate has a potential for abuse and dependence, necessitating careful monitoring.
### Comparison with Alternative Medication (Non-Stimulant)
– **Non-Stimulants (e.g., Atomoxetine)**: Non-stimulant medications like Atomoxetine work by selectively inhibiting the reuptake of norepinephrine. They are often considered for patients who do not respond well to stimulants or have a history of substance abuse.
– **Advantages of Non-Stimulants**: Lower potential for abuse, longer-lasting effects without requiring multiple doses, and a different side effect profile.
– **Disadvantages of Non-Stimulants**: Generally take longer to become effective (up to several weeks), and some patients may not respond as well as they do to stimulants.
### Possible Side Effects and Considerations
– **Common Side Effects of Methylphenidate**: Insomnia, decreased appetite, weight loss, and increased heart rate or blood pressure.
– **Monitoring**: Regular follow-ups are necessary to monitor growth, cardiovascular health, and the potential for abuse.
### Legal, Ethical, and Social Implications
– **Legal**: Prescribing Methylphenidate requires careful adherence to regulations due to its classification as a controlled substance. It is important to ensure prescriptions are managed responsibly to prevent misuse.
– **Ethical**: Ethically, the benefits of medication must be weighed against the potential risks. Informed consent from the parents and assent from the child are crucial, ensuring they understand the treatment and its possible side effects.
– **Social**: Social stigma associated with ADHD and medication use can impact the child’s self-esteem and peer interactions. Educating the family and school staff about ADHD and the benefits of treatment can help mitigate these issues.
### Scholarly References
1. Biederman, J., & Faraone, S. V. (2005). Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. *Lancet*, 366(9481), 237-248.
2. Greenhill, L. L., Pliszka, S., & Dulcan, M. K. (2002). Practice parameter for the use of stimulant medications in the treatment of children, adolescents, and adults. *Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry*, 41(2 Suppl), 26S-49S.
3. Wilens, T. E., & Spencer, T. J. (2010). Understanding attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder from childhood to adulthood. *Postgraduate Medicine*, 122(5), 97-109.
By presenting these points, you can effectively argue for the use of Methylphenidate in treating Malcolm’s ADHD, highlighting its mechanisms, advantages, and addressing the potential concerns associated with its use.
The post Pro Methylphenidate Medication for ADHD: A Case Study of Malcolm, a 9-Year-Old Diagnosed with ADHD, Combined Presentation appeared first on Destiny Papers.
