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ADHD for Sex: Understanding the relationship between Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Sex

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Author: Dr. John Tyler

Publisher: Independently published

Paperback:
ISBN 10: 1660165687
ISBN 13: 978-1660165681

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a very common psychiatric condition in general population. Our understanding of its neurodevelopmental basis and mechanisms has improved greatly over the past two decades yet there are still many unknowns regarding the specifics of such mechanisms. In this case series we report three adult women who met the criteria for ADHD and similar sexual dysfunction. Their sexual dysfunction improved greatly once they were treated for their Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.ADHD is a neuropsychiatric disorder with core features of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It is the most common psychiatric condition in children in the US and it is now increasingly recognized and diagnosed in adults. It is known to cause psychological, academic, relational, social, employmentrelated, and other difficulties in individuals with the condition. There is also well supported data on earlier experimentation with illicit drugs and nicotine in comparison to general population. Other complications may include increased medical cost, increased rate of divorce, and increased number of motor vehicle accidents.ADHD generally responds well to treatment and treatment is generally conceptualized as multimodal which consists of behavioral support, academic/work place modifications, and medications. Most commonly used medications are stimulants with two major classes, methylphenidate and amphetamines. There are other non-stimulant medication options as well such as atomoxetine, bupropion, tricyclic antidepressants, and alpha 2 agonist group including clonidine and guanfacine.There is research showing subjects with conduct, disruptive and impulse control disorders exhibiting high risk for earlier sexual activity compared to controls. There are also case reports suggesting psychostimulants may reverse or help with sexual dysfunction secondary to selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors. A literature research did not show any research specifically regarding a possible link between ADHD in adult females and sexual dysfunction. However, there are studies addressing the relationship between ADHD and earlier and high risk sexual behaviors in individuals.