ADHD Treatment Medication
Adults suffering from ADHD are usually treated with psychosocial therapy and medications. Medications used to treat ADHD include stimulants as well as non-stimulant medications.
Stimulants, including lisdexamfetamine and methylphenidate, work on chemical messengers within the brain to improve mood concentration, concentration and impulse control. add adhd medications or guanfacine, which are non-stimulant ADHD drugs, are prescribed to adults, teens or children who are not responsive to stimulants.
Stimulants
The most commonly used medications to treat ADHD are stimulants. They boost the levels of neurotransmitters (dopamine and norepinephrine) in the brain, which help people control their behavior and pay attention. They have been found to ease ADHD symptoms in 70 to the majority of children and adults. This includes cutting down on hyperactivity, interrupting and fidgeting and helping with the completion of tasks and enhancing relationships. In addition, they have been shown to reduce absenteeism as well as improve academic performance.
These drugs are typically taken orally. They are available in two kinds: immediate-release (short-acting) and extended-release. The longer-acting type builds up slowly in the bloodstream, and is able to wear off more slowly than the short-acting dosage. This helps avoid what is known as the "crash effect" which can happen when a person's medication wears off and causes symptoms to be recurred, including low energy, mood swings and feelings of hunger.
The most commonly used stimulant for teenagers and children is methylphenidate. It is available in chewable pills, oral patches and tablets that can be swallowed. There are also amphetamines Adderall and Dexedrine, which are stronger and last longer than methylphenidate. There is also atomoxetine which is a prescription for children and adults over 5 years old if other medications are not working or cause unwanted side effects.
Amphetamines could affect the heart, and are not suitable for those with heart problems. They can also be misused, leading to addiction.
Nonstimulant ADHD medications are available, but they are more difficult to use and don't have the same effects. adhd and medication and behavioral therapy are often employed in multimodal treatment.
Some studies have shown the combination of medications and behavioral therapy can improve the way that people with ADHD perform in their daily life, whether at school, work, or at home. The condition cannot be managed with medication alone. Many people with ADHD struggle to function even when taking medication.
In these cases you should talk to your doctor about other treatment options are available. In some instances, these treatments include psychoeducation which assists adolescents, children and adults make sense of their diagnosis of ADHD and provide strategies to deal with it. This is often combined behavioural therapy and skill development to improve the performance of people suffering from ADHD at work and school.
Some ADHD medication can cause adverse effects, but they are usually brief and temporary. Most side effects disappear as the body becomes accustomed to the medication. If they do persist however, your doctor may be able to alter the dosage or the type. It is very important to tell your doctor about any changes in mood appetite, sleep, or stomach upsets that your child or you experience while on this medication. 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 issues that could interfere with the medication or increase your risk of adverse side effects.