Posted by Sunnely on April 22, 2001, at 18:17:35
In reply to Adderal and blood tests, posted by Melly on April 21, 2001, at 22:16:42
Hi Melly,
I don't think all meds for ADHD require mandatory "blood tests" every 3 months. However, doctor may determine, based on his clinical findings or observations, that certain lab tests may require regular monitoring while on an ADHD drug.
There is one drug wherein a certain lab test mandatory, pemoline (Cylert). There have been at least 5 cases of liver damage in children treated with pemoline for ADHD. One of the children developed a fulminant liver failure. Attempt to save him failed. He succumbed after a second liver transplant.
In view of the above cases, it is now mandatory to perform liver function tests prior to, and at least every 4-6 months during pemoline therapy. It is also recommended that pemoline not be given to patients with impaired liver function, or combined with drugs known to depress liver drug metabolism. Also, pemoline should be tried only after other meds have been used and proved ineffective in treating the ADHD.
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> My son's MD is telling us that no matter what meds he goes on for his ADHD he will be required to have blood tests every 3 months. I can't find anything in the books I have that says that. Does anyone know? Thanks.
poster:Sunnely
thread:60730
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20010417/msgs/60784.html