Wednesday, May 30, 2012

Thursday, January 05, 2012 djwelch asks

Q: Im 17 have ADD and have been on Adderall XR 30mg for about 11 years now.I have not grown more than an inch in the past two years. How can this be countered?And does Adderall also stunt muscle growth?

I work out constantly at the gym 3-5 days a week and have not been seeing the results my workout partner has. Also, I was wondering if it would hurt me to take my medication only when i need it. I would like to start growing.
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Eileen Bailey, Health Guide
1/ 6/12 9:00am

Thank you for your question and welcome to Health Central's ADHD Community.

 

I am not a medical professional and would not be able to give you medical advice.

 

As far as whether stimulant medications stunt growth, there is still much debate about this topic. Some studies indicate there is a slight decrease in growth when on stimulants but that you will eventually "catch up." Other studies show the need for medication breaks, such as summertime, to help catch up.

 

You can read more about this:

 

ADHD Stimulants May Affect Growth, At Least Short-Term

 

Do Stimulants Stunt Growth?

 

Medication Breaks May Allow ADHD Kids to Catch Up to Tall Peers

 

But it is also important to remember that everyone grows differently, reaching different heights at different times. For example, in my family, many of the men had a growth spurt between the ages of 17 and 19. Other families tend to grow slower but over a longer period of time. You have to look at your family history and how tall other family members are. Your genes probably play a bigger part in your height than the medication.

 

However, if you are concerned, this is something you should discuss with your doctor.

 

Eileen

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By djwelch— Last Modified: 01/06/12, First Published: 01/05/12