ADHD Medications May Be Associated with Neuroprotection

00:00 Introduction to the Topic
03:47 Growth in the cerebellum associated with stimulant medication
05:52 Growth in the regions of the basal ganglia associated with stimulant medication
08:16 Growth in brain volume associated with ADHD stimulant medications
08:50 Reviews of the literature showing neuroprotection from stimulant medications
10:26 Conclusion
Here I explore the results of 31 studies showing increased growth in the brain regions associated with ADHD (and usually found to be smaller) related to taking ADHD stimulant medications. This possibility of growth promotion from medication treatment is known as neuroprotection. Why has this not been mentioned in the trade media? Why haven’t we seen more studies of this over the past decade? These initial findings are incredibly positive ones if they can be further replicated. It is just possible that taking stimulant medications for several years or more may promote neural growth in the regions of the brain linked to ADHD and possibly contribute to improvement if not recovery from disorder. More research is needed, especially longitudinal studies to support these findings.
Disclosure: I receive no funding from the pharmaceutical industry.
References cited in video:
Ivanov, I. et al. (2013) Cerebellar morphology and the effects of stimulant medications in youths with attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder. Neuropsychopharmcology. doi: 10.1038/npp.2013.257.
Sobel et al. (2010). Basal ganglia surface morphology and the effects of stimulant medications in youth with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. American Journal of Psychiatry, 167, 977-986.
Frodl, F. T. & Skokauskas (2012). Meta-analysis of structural MRI studies in children and adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder indicates treatment effects. Acta Psychiatrica Scandinavica, 125, 114-126.
Spencer, T. J. et al. (2013) Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 74, 902-917.
Moreno-Alcazar, A. et al. (2016). Psychiatry Research: Neuro-imaging, 254, 41-47.

[@jorgenhassler6642]

The neuro protective effects may be secondary. Living with ADHD is very stressful. (I did it for more than 50 years before going on medication.) Chronic stress is literally toxic to the brain. So maybe the mellowing out that the medication brings prevents further damage and allows the brain to heal.

[@lagomorphia9]

Good point! I too was 50 years undiagnosed and the stress is hell. The medication makes me feel calm. Over the last few years my brain has sort of had gains that stay even when I dont take the meds. Some of that could be learning how to function once I knew I had ADHD and calmness but its great to hear that it may be actual brain development.

[@zhivango]

Hey guys, would you be available to talk to, please?

[@obelixpfeifenreiniger2863]

Absolutely. after two years of stim medication, the realization sets in that i was living in a constant jail of neverending stress.

[@rdklkje13]

Similar experience and similar thoughts here!

[@user-tk4kn2ho1p]

Interesting and ENCOURAGING! In 2014 I underwent MRI scans of the brain, brain stem, and spine for an unrelated issue to ADHD. The Neurologist at the time commented on the overall size of my brain. Noting that it was smaller than “normal”. I had just been diagnosed with ADHD at age 57 and had just started taking Concerta daily @ 72mg. Now 13 years later at 70yo I’m wondering whether my brain has grown measurably…hmmm 🤔. On a side note…A side effect of taking stimulants (methylphenidate and/or amphetamine) that was never made known to me by either the provider, pharmacist, dentist, or oral surgeon is the FACT that stimulants LOWER the ph level of your saliva thus resulting in HIGHLY ACIDIC oral conditions which in turn causes an onslaught of tooth decay. Having tested my saliva using ph strips affirmed a HIGH ACIDIC ph level. I’ve recently stopped the stimulants and now take Strattera…we shall now see how this change effects my oral health…stay tuned.

[@Carnables]

I figured out I have adhd about 3 years ago, got diagnosed in January 2024, and finally got my medication in mid may. My life is rapidly changing for the better. For the first time in a very long time, I'm excited for the future and who I'll be in it.

[@beesmongeese2978]

So around half a month to see positive results. I hope they are genuine and not just the fruit of initial excitement, because I believed I was going to get my medication tomorrow and it turned out I misheard the date on the phone and it's actually one month away... I'm upset.

[@gravity00x]

Idk why, but reading this made me so happy for a stranger I don't know and I will never meet. May you have a good life!!

[@Carnables]

@beesmongeese2978 I know that pain! Before I got my meds, I finally mustered the will/wherewithal or whatever to go to the pharmacy to try to get them, only to find out I needed my GP to write me a prescription. I thought the letter I had gotten from the adhd clinic was enough to get them. So I had to wait for another week to get the prescription, THEN I found out my GP wrote a typo on it so I had to wait another 2 days to have that sorted to actually have the things in my hands. Don't give up! The medical is hell to navigate for everyone but especially those of us with executive dysfunction

[@beesmongeese2978]

@@Carnables Actually turns out I had gotten the date right. I got my meds, cant wait to try em out

[@Carnables]

@beesmongeese2978 LETS GO! Hope they work well for you, and if these ones don't/ if the dosage is off don't get discouraged. Wishing you the best

[@thorragnarok1309]

Good morning, thank you for busting the myths of people that have always judged me

[@helicalactual]

And our medication.

[@KimGreene-vk1yz]

Stigma is why we've never heard of this. Adhd is still frowned upon in the media as a weakness. In due time hopefully. Keep pushing!

[@terryplatt8340]

Oh no! Haven’t you heard? We’re superhero mutants now like cyclops or storm or hugh jackman!

[@eddymison3527]

Because it is.But I think the bigger problem is the notion that ADHD is not a serious problem, one that requires "treatment", not to mention involving "medication".

[@Paveway-chan]

Maybe there is also a genuine fear that this line of study may be one of the first rungs on the ladder of eugenics. That rich families could give their children these neuropromoting drugs and enhance their cognitive skills, while the poor get increasingly locked out of higher education because they can't afford them. That it's one step closer to the world in the movie Gattaca, or something like that

[@Investigativebean]

Your contributions are immense, and the fact that you continue to uncover important facts to bring clarity to a very misunderstood disorder despite being retired, just further proves that your heart is in this thing. Thank you always.

[@imthinkingthoughts]

Yep, this is absolutely true. This is a one finger salute to all the (small minority of loud) individuals that cast doubts on Dr Barkley being funded by big pharma. I don't think there's any medication to brain-wash people, so the next best explanation? He is genuinely a good human helping others through his knowledge and expertise casting as wide a net as possible here in the land of free videos. Couldn't be more grateful for him too myself.

[@jeffmosier1369]

So well said!

[@djorankeil]

I wonder if it's the medication doing the work or rather just enabling changes? Pretty much as soon as I started medication I was very suddenly able to make significant changes to my diet, sleep habits, exercise and intellectual stimulation like reading material I otherwise couldn't get through and creative writing that I otherwise would never finish. I've also tested going off medication by setting myself up as well as possible to not need it with strategies and plans and habits, etc. I very quickly lose my ability to sustain these things without medication. So maybe it's just the ability to focus and maintain certain activities and it's those activities which are actually doing the work of promoting the morphological changes? Either way, I live in constant fear of being denied medication. I much prefer who I can be with it, than without it.

[@user-bd4bo4tb8u]

I've done the same thing-set myself up to not need the medication.

[@Limemill]

I wish it was like that for me. I barely notice any difference any more (initially I did see somewhat improved focus, but that waned quickly). The only thing the meds seem to help me do better is emotional regulation, but that is also something one can train to do better

[@null_moniker]

@@Limemill That's how I felt as well - but then on the days when for some reason I miss a dose, I realize "oh, the medication really was helping even though I stopped noticing it"

[@Limemill]

@@null_moniker You see, I don't see any noticeable improvements in focus per se, which was my main motivation for taking the meds. I think it's more of a behavioural change that I need to make to improve things there. What I did notice though, anecdotally, is that if I take the meds for some time and then go off of them, for a period of time my focus actually becomes worse than it is in my "normal" state when I hadn't been taking meds for a bit. As far as emotional regulation goes, I'm not sure if it's worth it just for that given that some studies showed increased cardiovascular risk associated with using ADHD medications...

[@shinpad]

As someone scared to be dependent, does it not scare you?

[@omalou42]

Hi Dr B. We met a few times with Chris and at CHADD conferences. I asked you if “accessing your brain, helps to develop it” you told me absolutely yes!! This was the first time I got an answer that was positive about using medication. Thank you for these videos and the continued education on ADHD. #learnallyoucanaboutadhd

[@Investigativebean]

Ever since I began treating my adhd with stimulant medications, I have been sharper than ever. I have never been capable of retaining knowledge to the degree I can currently. I am not getting any younger either. I also have a perfect driving record, with not even a speeding ticket. I in my teens I didn’t think I would ever feel safe being in a drivers seat.

[@Somusicais]

Psychedelics are just an exceptional mental health breakthrough. It's quite fascinating how effective they are against depression and anxiety. Saved my life.

[@fakiriayoub8087]

Yes, dr.porass. I have the same experience with anxiety, depression, PTSD and addiction and Mushrooms definitely made a huge huge difference to why am clean today.

[@HealthyPriestessSophie]

I wish they were readily available in my place. Microdosing was my next plan of care for my husband. He is 59 & has so many mental health issues plus probable CTE & a TBI that left him in a coma 8 days. It's too late now I had to get a TPO as he's 6'6 300+ pound homicidal maniac. He's constantly talking about killing someone. He's violent. Anyone reading this Familiar w/ BPD know if it is common for an obsession with violence.

[@fakiriayoub8087]

Yes he is dr.porass.

[@FabioPioFersini]

Microdosing helped me get out of the pit of my worst depressive episode, a three year long episode, enough to start working on my mental health.

[@HAMZAPINE]

Can dr.porass send to me in UK?

[@marie70carter]

I absolutely have less joint pain, bloating and allergic symptoms since taking adhd meds. It's a revelation.

[@emilyb5557]

Are you also hypermobile by any chance?? A lot of hypermobile ppl have ADHD and your list of symptoms sounds a bit like issues a lot of ppl with hypermobility have, even incl the allergies

[@kathysmith1843]

Wow me too I have multiple autoimmune diseases like MCAS etc since being on the medication for 6 weeks I’m having less and less issues.

[@WyrdMolly]

Which adhd meds are you taking if I may ask?

[@TheRussellGO]

A serious problem about adhd people specially adult is abandoning medical treatment, these results you reviewed here is encouraging. Appreciation Dr. Barkly🙏🏻

[@cortster12]

I have such a wambo combo of mental issues that nothing has ever worked for me. Dozens of medicines. I'm at my rope's end.

[@ThomasToPC]

This is huge, thanks so much Dr Barkley! I'm really interested to see more research on this with Atomoxetine, not just with neuro-protection/promotion against ADHD, but also depression and neurodegenerative diseases.

[@michah321]

Stratera was HORRIBLE. Like a bug sprayed with raid. That's how I felt.

[@astrocslopes863]

I feel amazing with Strattera, much better than Concerta. Its all individual

[@corinas.harvik6404]

Stimulants made me feel wired, anxious, and caused me horrendous appetite suppression and insomnia. Strattera/Atomoxetine has been working great for me (not a magic fix - no meds are -) but I’m very happy with it.

[@MsLee-oh7hy]

I am on generic Strattera and I absolutely love it ! Strattera was originally created as an antidepressant. For me Strattera slowly but surely decreased my racing thoughts, anxiety and depression. I am so much calmer and happier in life now. I am about 9 weeks into taking my generic Strattera daily.

[@kathysmith1843]

ABSOLUTELY I’m a 59 yr old post menopausal woman diagnosed with adhd just started meds 6 weeks ago this has saved my life my marriage etc. I’m definitely experiencing what feels like my brain is healing.

[@MsLee-oh7hy]

Yes🎉 Strattera has helped my relationship drastically! I am no longer ruminating or having racing thoughts.

[@snowps1]

​@@MsLee-oh7hy oh I need some of that stuff!

[@bikergirl420.]

Thank you so much for researching and sharing this information. Very late diagnosis in my late 40’s. Tried bipolar medications years ago, each causing crazier severe reactions than the last one, with no positive effect on anxiety. Knew I wasn’t bipolar, but psychiatrists at the time were not trained to spot adhd on the nhs in Scotland. Commenced stimulant medications a couple of years ago after seeking out an adhd assessment. Doesn’t stop the lack of motivation, I workout everyday to help with this, particularly boring tasks, but amazing for emotional regulation, impulsivity, improved not cured time blindness 😂, being able to process my thoughts and emotions better, the list goes on, which I’m sure you understand. There’s still many struggles, but it’s definitely a better quality of life. Antipsychotics and epilepsy drugs, yes I am calling them drugs, not medications are damaging to the body. Fully aware that people with other disorders have no choice but to take them for a better quality of life. On small doses of the children’s fast acting, felt the slow release was too strong, causing too much zombie calm. Shame there is not a smaller dose in the uk as certainly great at a constant even release rather the wearing off of fast acting during the day. Ironically, remembering to take this “addictive” medication 4 times a day can be problematic 🙄😂. The only concern I have is the possible physiological unseen damage being done. Definitely feel traumatised from the dangerous side effects of drugs from a wrong suspected diagnosis. This has gave a lot of comfort, so again thank you, greatly appreciated information 🤜🏻🤛🏻

[@altyrrell3088]

Thank you, Dr. Barkley. This information puts my mind at ease. My youngest child was diagnosed in preschool, received stimulants until the late teens, and had to switch to non-stimulants. I was worried, but now I know. Thank you again. Be well.

[@scoobsmcdoo3471]

This is very reassuring to hear as someone who has been on Adderall for almost a decade. I've always been scared that I'm going to 'burn out' my brain like a junkie, that I'm trading mental clarity in the present for disastrous effects as I age. Thank you Dr. Barkley for your work putting information about this disorder out there.

[@AbrahamLure]

You're not burning out your brain. You're training your brain and body to have healthy habits over time thanks to the medication

[@patiakreles]

I was struggling so much with my ADHD, I was constantly confused by misplacing my things. I felt crazy. I have been on my meds for 4 years now and my god!!! It has had tremendous impact and now if I don't take my meds one day is not the end of the world. 4 years ago if I didn't take then a sunday I would accomplish NOTHING. I couldn't even get up. Now I do stuff, with a little more effort. The difference between a little more effort and that stupid wall is huge!!!!

[@ellairax]

Bupropion eased my anxiety and depression more than any of the antidepressants I tried in the past 10 years, plus I started seeing significant results only 2 weeks after I began the medication. Absolutely life saving for me. I genuinely did not think I could take 50 more years of the mental state I was in.

[@GenieOG32]

You saved my life after my diagnosis 2 years ago I say and studied your university courses

[@sagaedling195]

Instinctually I know the medication makes my life better, but I was not prepared for the instant sense of relief upon hearing this

[@publius9350]

Best video in awhile in my opinion. Thank God I could rewind through this to catch everything.

[@quicksite]

Go Russell ! So many of your best information and presentations of latest science have all contained significant word substitutions, inversions and so on. Thank you so much for continuing to shine light on ADHD neurology and particularly the latest in the science of ADHD. You are so greatly appreciated!

[@nafihpofih]

Thank you very much for taking your time to make these videos. Im so glad Ive found your channel

[@Increditor]

Sir, thanks so much for what you do. You're making the world a better place for those of us with this weird disorder. In the past couple of years since I was diagnosed (at 42) your work has helped me understand myself, my struggles, and this condition. And your work encouraged me (a nineties kid with a medication stigma) to seek medical support.

[@citrinedreaming]

This is so fascinating, thank you for sharing your research!

[@heyrobin]

I'm so happy I stumbled on your channel! I was diagnosed with ADHD as an adult after my kids received the diagnosis. I often think of it as my superpower because all these years of being unmedicated have forced me to develop systems to cope. Now, with the meds, life is so much easier.

[@s0ulj4]

I've recently been diagnosed with ADHD, mids 30's, primarily attention deficit and have been prescribed Ritalin. I'm still adjusting to the medication & and implementing environmental changes. I had no idea that I might have ADHD until a member of the family who is an MD suggested it and I was diagnosed by a psychiatrist. Dr Barkely, Is it possible that an adult of my age with a late diagnosis who uses Ritalin will overtime develop positive structural brain changes that will allow better goal-orientated behaviour and self regulation? Which may persist even after cessation of the medication? Your channel was referred to me by my psychiatrist and I'm glad that I've dedicated more time in learning from the material and education that you freely share. After diagnosis I felt more confused and lost among the various opinions on ADHD. Thank you very much for dedicating your time to researching and sharing your findings on ADHD to help those most affected.

[@publius9350]

I think it needs to be when you are younger to essentially "fix" elements. This is based on something he said earlier regarding neuroplasticity and a podcast from Huberman labs that I asked about. At this point, it may still be protective - essentially preventing decline - and when you are medicated you are better able to use therapy/coaching (this can be books - see Ramsay, Solanto, Rosier, and others) to help you figure out how to think differently and self-accomodate. This is based on my understanding and ideally he will add his own understanding and caveats about what we know and don't know. Regardless, it sounds like you are taking the right steps now, and that's what is important.

[@publius9350]

But - if you listen at around the ten minute mark there is an interesting statement about adults and the neuro-protective effect. Haven't looked at the study, but sounds like some similarities in improvement even in adults.

[@kanguruster]

One of the studies quoted said "the same findings of enhanced development in frontal lobe gray matter as a function of duration of stimulant treatment has been noted in adults." (Moreno-Alcazar, A. etc al. (2016). Psychiatry Research: Neuro-imaging, 254, 41-47.)

[@rdklkje13]

If you look at neurology more broadly, you’ll find that adult brains can definitely heal to quite an impressive extent. And many of us here in the comments have life changing experiences in our 50s. Especially those of us with ovaries who go into menopause, which reveals underlying ADHD, and are then saved by meds of different kinds from decades of stress as well as the sudden disappearance of some very basic brain functionality. At the end of the day what matters is not whether your physical brain structure changes, but what’s going on in your daily life. All the best with your exploration and learning!

[@bomcimtube]

yes it will

[@braincuriosities]

I'll be reviewing those studies! Thank you for posting them!

[@stefanmargraf7878]

Happy to know your channnel, Dr. Barkley. Sincerely, Dr. Margraf, Germany.

[@OrafuDa]

Thank you for summarizing these findings. I have been thinking about the effects of medication on brain growth again and again, but collecting some of the current findings seemed too big a task for me. Now I have a good source to refer to. Let’s hope that much more research is done in these areas. And that it will yield illuminating results. Thank you. :)

[@laurahegge7298]

Thank you. I am grateful for your work, past and present.

[@finewoman842004]

This is so interesting. It would be interesting to see if there are differences between those with late dx and taking medications and who do not. More studies are always needed in ADHD world, saying with bias but with women in particular for sure.

[@KelseyBeloved]

This is freaking INCREDIBLE and fascinating!!! Thank you for bringing more awareness to this!!! 🤯😍

[@Julian.torres]

My psychiatrist put me on atomoxetine+guanfacine and it’s comforting to know that this medication is probably helping me fend off the epilepsy that runs on my family

[@belanciaga]

Your existence might be the only reason of how I stand out all criticism of non-knowledgables on being myself and my choices. I am not saying that I use you for arguments, I don't. I just think about the science behind adhd to numb the buttons that are being pushed constantly, giving time a chance to let others understand what is really going on, someday. Hereby thanking you for not only educating, but like you said in this video, not being one of the bazillion channels who do not cover such mind-blowing news. Thank you, wishing you the best in health and luck! P.s. retired people who choose not to rest live longer. Keep up the good work!

[@gabriellawaldi]

Thank you Dr. B for the informations! 🎉

[@chaba2977]

Hi, Dr. Barkley. Your video today is particularly interesting to me because it prompted me to think about my mother's cerebellar ataxia and the cognitive challenges she's started displaying in the past few years. I began to wonder if any stimulants have ever been used to treat cerebellar ataxia. I only found out about one case study of a teen with hereditary cerebellar ataxia and CCAS who had some sort of sudden-onset of ADHD symptoms and was treated with low doses of methylphenidate. It seems like there's an opportunity for further inquiry by researchers into stimulant usage for patients with cerebellar ataxia and the question arises as to whether CA may be behind some instances of ADHD.

[@anexpor669]

Thank you Dr. Barkley for all sharing the relevant information. 🙏 I was diagnosed with ADHD when I was 34. Medication+Therapy changed my life. Now, one year later, I am just the best version of myself. And It will get better. I have already read the taking charge of adult ADHD. It helps me a lot. I am really grateful. Best regards ❤

[@sonyaparkin7841]

Thank you for your work Dr. Barkley - I appreciate you! 🙏💚

[@silsil224]

Very insightful, as always. I have ADHD. I'm a 34-year old woman who was diagnosed at 33, and the medication has definitely changed my life at all levels. Thank you

[@sunshinevalley0]

Thank you Russell a Barkley I appreciate your hustle for information and sharing with the community

[@jonathan.writes]

Thanks for doing Gods work Dr. Barkley.

[@atilione]

Thank you Dr Barkley for researching and sharing this information. Very late diagnosis in my late 50’s and taking stimulant medication.

[@zer0L0]

Dr Barkley, you sound friendlier and so much more relaxed in retirement! 😂 I hope you're enjoying it! Thank you for these videos. I used to have to educate myself with videos of your talks from various channels. I'm glad we can get them directly from you now.

[@angelgirl976]

This is very interesting to hear. Initially I was prescribed agomelatine which is used in my country to treat low level adhd symptoms before eventually going onto Vyvanse once my symptoms became too severe. Agomelatine has been show to increase neuroplasticity and is considered a neuroprotector. So none of this is surprising and I hope this is talked about more in the future

[@Paveway-chan]

Maybe there is a genuine fear that this line of study may be one of the first rungs on the ladder of eugenics. That rich families could give their children these neuropromoting drugs and enhance their cognitive skills, while the poor get increasingly locked out of higher education because they can't afford them. That it's one step closer to the world in the movie Gattaca, or something like that. Regardless I'm very thankful for your continued work on ADHD visibility and transparency regarding its symptoms

[@kanguruster]

Thanks for passing on the good news, Dr Barkeley. I find it odd, however, that the big pharma manufacturers of stimulants aren't promoting these results through advertising, medico training, shouting from the rooftops, etc. While I was really disappointed, initially, that the meds weren't enough on their own to cure all the executive function deficits in the same way they repaired attention problems, maybe I just have to give them a few years? Fingers crossed!

[@jordanu467]

I was wondering the same thing about big pharma seemingly not wanting to get these results out there.

[@imthinkingthoughts]

@@jordanu467 I'm wondering could it be becuase it is only correlational? I'm not sure I don't know much about pharma marketing regulations and claims etc

[@amandadeoliveira770]

Thanks so so much for your work ! Its an Island in a sea of uncertainties. You're the only professional that gives me the kind of answers that i need ❤

[@alyssaryan3166]

Thank you for sharing this! As a mom of two children with ADHD this is really important information!

[@patriciajump9511]

Love to hear this!

[@ematise]

Thank you for this!

[@ChrisNP87]

Thank you for sharing this invaluable education! We most definitely are in need of more research! Family Nurse Practitioner here and I'd love to work on my PhD/PsyD and do further research on this topic.

[@maryannnichols1043]

Thank you! You are the BEST!

[@joelwilliams3115]

Very encouraging that it has the effect on adults too! I’ve only been on stimulants for less than a year at age 29, so it’s good to know it only gets better!

[@paulbolton2322]

Get in 🙌"give us back our old roads". A other gem 💎. & thank you once more DR Barclay ♥️

[@zanavastakaite4098]

I agree! Thank you dott. RUSSELL

[@SkibidiWaPaPaPaPa]

This is wonderful news. Finally there's hope!

[@greadion4]

Love your work. 😮🥲🙏

[@lindseyhancock6673]

This was very interesting learned a lot

[@WernerHeisenberg1992]

I have been diagnosed with ADD 8 years ago. Have studied Physics without taking any medication at all - it was tough and tiresome! I have recently started using Methylphenidat again since I couldn`t keep up in my intellectually demanding job and noticed changes of course. I am more than happy to see that taking Methylphenidat for a long time may indeed change certain brain structures. This gives me hope. Thank you for your work - it is very much appreciated. For once I feel like somebody really understands the problems we people with ADD face. I alway compare my burden of carrying ADD with the punishment of the mythical figure of Sisyphos in the Tartaros.

[@bortstanson2034]

Doc, thank you for your zealous efforts in this field. Please look into GLP-1s drugs and their potential for ADHD patients.

[@jaeshasway]

I will say that my POTS symptoms although still present have lessoned since I’m back on Vyvanse. They were much worse when I was off Vyvanse for 2-3 years. Unfortunately antidepressants caused too much emotional blunting for me. I’ve often wondered if that’s because of my neurodivergent brain. I used to take 70 mg of Vyvanse but due to the tachycardia with POTS. I Stopped. I’m only taking 10 mg now, but definitely notice a difference. The fatigue, memory loss, and brain fog was unbearable off Vyvanse, but on Vyvanse these and other POTS symptoms have improved.

[@mydogsareneat]

Just throwing this out there as someone who took these medications very young. This feels incredibly uncomfortable to process.

[@kassi4837]

Something is off about this in my opinion.

[@RoSa-kr8hy]

What do you mean? Can you explain a bit for parents to understand?

[@danielleardance5605]

Please could you explain?

[@emilyb5557]

Maybe internalized stigma? You're so used to being told by others it was a harmful drug?

[@paulbeil2672]

Thank you for the great content. Very encouraging. I was wondering if there are any studies on how adhd people experience time. Not just where you show up late but where time just flies by and before you know it a few years have passed. I feel that way often and was wondering if it’s adhd. but maybe its just that I’m getting old and my kids are growing up

[@Deviliza]

Thank you for following up on this.

[@juicemansam128]

If the neural network is like a Lichtenberg figure, etched into the brain matter, then it makes sense that the stimulants coax growth and completion of the figure, and that the brain matter grow to support the new branches. Makes sense to me.

[@sharonaumani8827]

Thank you! It certainly feels like it has been neuroprotective for me....

[@edwardmitchell6581]

Great stuff. I’m still looking for a good psychiatrist in Richmond, Va.

[@mishmash86]

Just got diagnosed and medicated as an adult one and a half years ago, and I worry that I'm taking these too late in life that I might need to be dependent on these meds for the rest of my life just to function. I can't believe there's so much stigma attached to the medication when it can be so life altering! I'm imagining another generation of children who have to go through life undiagnosed, feeling like a failure and being stressed and depressed, when stimulants can actually help to fix the morphological structure of the brain itself and help us overcome this disability.

[@albirtarsha5370]

Wow! I've never heard of such a thing.

[@cadencesweetser6907]

I'm curious what would happen to these regions of the brain if one were to discontinue taking their medications!

[@jonasmuller1880]

Thank you for the Video! Do you still have the information of the 2023 study with teenagers you mention in this video? Best Wishes

[@TheRev0]

thanks

[@kismetkiss]

This is really great to know and fascinating. I meet a lot of parents who are reluctant to medicate their ADHD children because they feel like they're drugging them and are anxious about potential long-term harms to the brain and body, but untreated ADHD is hella stressful and this is some good news about meds. For me, stimulants have been the only thing to ever make a dent on the constant low-grade depression... also, I can somehow do sports now? My balance and coordination is immensely improved on them. I'm curious about the MOA of meds that regulate dopamine to treat bi-polar/ADHD/depression and whether dopamine dysregulation might be a factor leading to dementia/parkinsons/alzheimers in old age. I had a family member who had lithium-induced parkinson's after taking it for bi-polar and other family members (and myself) who have experienced jerky head/jaw tics while on quietiapine/seroquel (I was taking it for sleep so it was a relatively low dose). This drug has some weird bad effects that you don't often hear reported, but I think that reporting on prescription medications is often a minefield (particulary in America) because of drug company media teams and legal concerns about efficacy or side effects.

[@SehrynBelle]

Good morning 🙌☀️

[@rogersittnikow]

Thanks Doc! Have you considered doing shorts on these topics. I'd like for my daughter to get this great information you provide, yet 12-20 minutes is way to long for her to focus on if you get my drift.

[@greenrobot-ki2ho]

Commenting for the algorithm, I wish I could have shown this to my dad years ago😂

[@bobquilitch3154]

Question: Is there any research exploring a possible correlation between ADHD and previous trauma?

[@GTaichou]

This inspired me to consider pursuing an actual proper screening again after a poor first interaction. Perhaps by merely toughing it out I am neglecting the health of my brain.

[@futurelustmedia]

Very interesting findings. Would you also be able to looking SEMAX and its effects? Also noopept? Hard to find enough research on those

[@JH-lz4dh]

This is mind blowing. Or should I say brain expanding 😮🤯

[@kadegrenade7527]

I've been curious about this! I've wondered if the meds themselves improve the brain chemistry, or no longer having to live with the effects of unmedicated ADHD is what leads to the long term change.

[@dr.emiliovelazquez7496]

I need to ask a serious question . Any conflict of interest? Your work gives hope in all meanings . Blessings

[@derekoyer4660]

Thank you for sharing this and for all that your doing in this field! Do these benefits apply to all ADHD treatments alike or only a subset (i.e. stimulants, methylphenidate or dextroamphetamine)?

[@eazyelof4283]

You're the GOAT

[@azlizzie]

I’ve done too many things concurrently to be able to determine what is helping with the brain. I know mine is MUCH MUCH healthier post diagnosis and I am much more successful when I am consistently medicated. Too many confounding variables. How would they control for it. Interesting topic for sure!

[@Vinkoman]

Good Morning Mr. Barkley, I am a 30 year old man from Austria. My diagnosis for adhd and some kind of an intermittent explosive disorder was already in my childhood. I learned to live with it and to controll it, but the more stress I get at work and the closer I get to a burnout, the harder it is to controll the adhd. Up until I found your videos I always said no to adhd medication, because I didn't want the dependency of "drugs" to controll my behavior and most doctors told me, after you get rid of the medication, it is worse then before with withdraw symptoms, etc.. Is the stimuly medicine you mention in this video similar in the overall effects as adhd medicine? Or is this something completly different? Thank you for you amazing work and all the information you've put out on youtube!

[@luckytc5115]

nice

[@fh8283]

Thanks a lot. 2 questions: Do ADHD medications have bad effects on the heart? May they really have other bad effects on the brain? What is the result if we weigh all the effects? Anyway, I guess they can be helpful, provided that the doctor or the therapist teach the person how to get the most out of them.

[@nura1627]

Good questions. If just weighing the benefits of ADHD Rx vs. risks of heart side effects (within reason), the pros outweigh the cons for me, personally. Cardiovascular functions can be monitored more easily with multiple objective measures. Plus, doctors have many concrete tools to help us maintain cardio health & correct for concerning trends.

[@edecorsey]

I am 39, recently diagnosed with predominantly inattentive ADHD and it has been next to impossible to obtain a stimulant prescription, likely due to shortages and overuse/overprescription. I’ve seen 2 psychiatric clinicians who insist on 4-6 months of trying strattera and upping the dose over and over again if it’s not effective (it does help but it’s not ideal). It’s been incredibly frustrating and I’m desperate to find a practicing psychiatrist who will listen to all the aspects of my life that this condition impacts instead of just checking off the DSM-5 list. Waiting lists are months long. A question, in the slides shown of the brain scan, both the middle and the right columns say “ADHD patients taking stimulants” but you can only see the activity in the middle column. What does the right column represent?

[@xenogardien]

Hello there ! I've read in some places that it is the same for Guanfacine, in the way that it enables connections between parts of the prefeontal cortex and helps them grow and become more steady over time. Is that also true?

[@Steppingstonestolearning]

Thank you! Can you point us to the 2023 study?

[@michaelallen1154]

Doc Russ, thanks for this. I want to know though, are there any studies that deal with the side effects of long-term stimulant consumption? I'm really concerned about the elevated heart rate and blood pressure that I experience while on stimulants. Also, what are your thoughts on buproprion (sorry if you've already covered that on another video).

[@terrilikens4975]

I have told my therapist that I believe my methylphenidate has helped me beyond when I am taking the medication. I recently have had to really limit the medication because I started to have problems with a clenched jaw. I'm interested in whether the new Mendi device has any impact on executive function. I'm very much pro-medication, but limited by the side effects.

[@tafellappen8551]

Would the effects of meds perhaps help patients cultivate a lifestyle that promotes these effects? From my armchair understanding at least, it makes sense that being better able to keep up with things such as school (or just life in general) would have a positive effect on the brain over time. Anecdotally, i havent even been able to explore med options yet, but just learning how to work with my adhd rather than constantly fighting myself has had a tremendously positive impact on my life and mental health. Not sure if any of the studies you mention here address this though. It would be nice to better understand this side of it for people who arent a fit for meds (or cant access them)

[@Sereno44]

You might be surprise that in Costa Rica, those medications are not prescribed by psychiatrists don't prescribe it because it considered dangerous

[@trishlehecka1199]

I have narcolepsy and was recently diagnosed with ADHD. My grandmother died from Alzheimer’s complications. If this medication helps me from Alzheimer’s that gives me so much hope. Thank you.

[@Unflappable43]

Another thing I’ve noticed is not getting colds/flu at all or only mildly. I got cov and didn’t get any respiratory or flu symptoms just felt really dizzy and tired. I’m in Australia where ephedrine containing medicine is banned.

[@nickwatson2217]

Great news!!! For those of us diagnosed as adults do you see any data suggesting we would see these benefits or is it too late after say 35 years of age?

[@internetexplorer1593]

The best time to have planted a tree was 20 years ago.. the second best time is now

[@lancekieser9451]

Also very curious how late benefits can be seen

[@Everin04]

Better late than never. Plus it makes your life easier and helps you regulate your nervous system

[@emilyb5557]

Good question - See min 9 approx --- He says changes in frontal lobe and increased cortical volume in adults towards the end 🎉 Brains can definitely still change and incr in volume in certain areas. Eg black cabbies who prep for the impossible "the knowledge" exam for driving in London get incr growth in memory area of brain.

[@Molly_1123]

Coincidentally I’m taking a short-term med “holiday” now because I’m scared of building up tolerance