ADHD Treatment Medication
Treatment for ADHD in adults typically involves psychosocial therapy and medication. Medications used to treat ADHD include stimulants as well as non-stimulant medication.
Stimulants like methylphenidate and Lisdexamfetamine affect chemical messengers within the brain to improve concentration, mood, and impulse control. Atomoxetine, or guanfacine which are nonstimulant ADHD drugs, are prescribed to teenagers, adults or children who do not respond to stimulants.
Stimulants
The most common medicines used to treat ADHD are stimulants. They boost the levels of chemical (neurotransmitters) in the brain, such as dopamine and norepinephrine. They aid people in paying attention and manage their behavior. They have been found to reduce ADHD symptoms in 70 to 80percent of children and adults. This includes cutting down on fidgeting, hyperactivity, and interruptions aiding in the completion of tasks and enhancing relationships. They have also been shown to improve academic performance and decrease absenteeism.
They are typically taken orally. They are available in two forms: immediate-release (short-acting) and extended-release. The longer-acting form is slowly absorbed into the bloodstream, and wears off more slowly than the short-acting dosage. This can help avoid the "crash" effect that occurs when a drug wears off, causing symptoms to return such as low mood and a feeling of hunger and a lack of energy.
Methylphenidate is the most popular stimulant that is used by adolescents and children. It is available as chewable pills, oral patches, and tablets that can be swallowed. There are also amphetamines Adderall and Dexedrine which are more potent and last longer than methylphenidate. There's also atomoxetine which has recently been licensed to be used for adults and children who are older than 5 when other medications fail to perform or cause unwanted side effects.
Amphetamines can be harmful to the heart, which is why they may not be the best choice for people with heart problems. They can also be misused and cause addiction.
Nonstimulant ADHD medications are available, however they take longer to work and do not have the same effects. Nonstimulants are generally used along with the behavioral therapy method which is often called multimodal treatment.
Some studies have shown that the combination of medication and therapy can improve how well people suffering from ADHD perform at home, school or work. The condition cannot be managed through medication alone. Many people suffering from ADHD struggle to function, despite taking medication.
In these situations, it is important to speak with your doctor about what other treatments are available. my response is among the therapies that can assist children teens, adults and children recognize the signs of ADHD, and learn strategies to cope. This is often combined with behavioural therapy and skill-training to enhance the performance of people suffering from ADHD at work and school.
While certain ADHD medications may cause negative side effects, they tend to be minor and last only a short time. The majority of side effects go away when the body is accustomed to the medication. If they do persist, the doctor may be able to alter the dosage or type. Inform your doctor if you or your child experience any changes in appetite or mood, or if they have trouble sleeping or having stomach upsets. This information will help your doctor determine the best medication for you or your child. This is especially important if you have any other health conditions that may affect the medication or increase the risk of side adverse effects.