Asthma medication may influence the psychological functioning of children

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Abstract

Asthma is a global health problem with up to 15% of children suffering from the disease. It has been shown by various researchers that symptomatic asthmatic patients have increased levels of free serotonin in plasma when compared with asymptomatic patients. Thus, some researchers suggest that reducing the concentration of free serotonin in plasma might be useful in treating patients with asthma. Low levels of serotonin, has however, been linked to various psychological conditions like depression, oppositional defiant disorder, ADHD and even conduct disorder. Research has indicated that products like methylphenidate (also known by the brand names as e.g., Ritalin®, Concerta, Metadate and others) and other stimulants used for these conditions, particularly ADHD, exert their paradoxical calming effects by boosting serotonin levels in the brain. Therefore, the hypothesis suggest that some children using asthma medication that lowers serotonin levels, might present with symptoms of depression ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder and even conduct disorder. They may be using asthma medication that lowers serotonin and additionally use methylphenidate that boosts serotonin levels for e.g., ADHD. The hypothesis therefore suggests that asthmatic children presenting with psychological complaints, be treated holistically and serotonin levels measured before coming to conclusions regarding their psychological functioning.

Section snippets

Background

Asthma, characterized as acute respiratory distress, is a serious global health problem that has steadily increased in prevalence during the past two decades [1]. The prevalence of asthma among children in South Africa is approximately 10–15% [2]; this is in keeping with figures in other parts of the world. Shaw and co-workers [3] in 2000 mentioned that the prevalence of asthma in a random sample of 14-year-old children in Birmingham (England) (from 12 secondary schools) was 15.8%; and in two

The role of serotonin in asthma

Although asthma medication can save lives, relatively little is known about the long-term effects of these stimulants or how they alter brain chemistry. Serotonin, in particular plays an important role in asthma. Research has indicated that asthma attacks are triggered by free serotonin in the blood plasma (f-5HT) [5], [6], [7], [8]. Lechin and co-workers in 1996 mentioned that symptomatic asthmatic patients have increased levels of norepinephrine, epinephrine, dopamine, free serotonin and

The link between serotonin and unacceptable behaviour

The link between serotonin, aggression, disruptive behaviour, mood and impulsive behaviour is a complex link and seems to be directly correlated to low serotonin levels. There is, however, a complex relationship between serotonin levels and neuroanatomical, neurochemical interconnectivity, executive brain function, and behavioural dysregulation. Furthermore, there is evidence that low serotonin levels seem to result in emotional dysregulation. Davidson and co-workers [17] suggested evidence of

Conclusion

After studying the literature it is clear that in the control of asthma, low serotonin levels are preferred. However, low serotonin levels have been associated with many disorders where medications that increase serotonin are given. Although asthma is a potentially deadly disease, it is crucial to be aware that different combinations of drugs should not be used together with asthma medications. Up to 15% of children suffer from asthma, therefore a percentage of these children might be taking

Acknowledgements

This research is dedicated to a very brave little boy, Carel, who suffers from asthma and struggles to overcome this disease every day of his life.

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