Medication For ADHD: What's No One Has Discussed
Medication For ADHD - What Are the Side Effects?
Many people who suffer from ADHD have their symptoms improved by taking medication. Every person's reaction to medication is different, and the side effects can be problematic.
Methylphenidate is a stimulant. It works by increasing levels of a brain chemical that helps control behavior and attention.
Stimulant drugs
Stimulant medication can improve attention and concentration for 70% to 80% children and adults who use it. They work by altering the neurotransmitters involved in the brain, such as dopamine and norepinephrine. They typically cause an initial rise in blood pressure and heart rate that lasts several hours. This is why experts advise that people start low and build up to the recommended dosage over the course of weeks.
Stimant medication is taken by mouth, usually once or twice a day. Most are available in both short- and long-acting formulas. Short-acting stimulants peak after a few hours and should be taken 3 times a day; long-acting stimulants last 8-12 hours and are taken twice every day.
These drugs may cause unwanted adverse effects, like insomnia, nausea and a loss of appetite. Some people may become irritable or moody. However, these effects usually disappear over time and are able to be controlled by adjusting the dosage. In some cases stimulants can alter your personality. You may become withdrawn or irritable, or even more obsessive and rigid. They may also increase the risk of developing other mental disorders, such as mania and depression.
The majority of stimulants are controlled substances and require prescription. Adolescents and adults misuse them to enhance performance. They may become addicted when they aren't used properly or as prescribed. Because of the risks, doctors are very cautious in assessing the need for stimulant drugs and monitor the dosage and side effects carefully.
Non-stimulant medication
There are many non-stimulant ADHD treatments and the most effective one depends on the individual. These medications do not affect the same brain chemicals as stimulants do. Non-stimulants are less likely have negative side effects but they can take longer to work and only last for 24 hours. Most of these drugs are able to increase the levels of norepinephrine in the brain. This includes antidepressants such as bupropion (Wellbutrin) nortriptyline and Pamelor.
Psychotherapy
Talk therapy can help the patient how to deal with the symptoms and learn new strategies for coping, such as controlling impulsivity or stress. BetterHelp, a service that offers therapy online connects clients with licensed therapists who specialize in treating ADHD and other mental disorders. You can take a no-cost assessment and you'll be matched with a therapist in just a few hours. Non-stimulant or stimulant medications can help people with ADHD reduce impulsivity and improve their ability of focus however, they do not address the underlying causes. Cognitive mindfulness and behavioral therapy can be combined with talk therapy to teach people how to manage their impulsive behavior. These techniques can be taught by an ADHD coach or practiced with a trained therapist. add medication uk and caregivers can learn these methods to help their child or adult who suffers from ADHD. In certain situations it is suggested to combine medication and talk therapy may be the most effective approach.