ADHD Treatment Medication
Adults with ADHD are usually treated with medication and psychosocial therapy. The treatments used to treat ADHD can include stimulants as well as nonstimulants.
Stimulants such as methylphenidate or Lisdexamfetamine work on chemical messengers in the brain to improve concentration, mood and control of impulses. Atomoxetine and guanfacine are nonstimulant ADHD medications that can be offered to adults, teenagers or children, if they don't respond to stimulants.
Stimulants
The most common medicines used to treat ADHD are stimulants. They increase levels of chemicals (neurotransmitters) in the brain, such as dopamine and norepinephrine, which aid in focusing attention and control their behavior. It has been demonstrated that they can ease ADHD symptoms for 70 - the majority of children and adults. This includes reducing hyperactivity, interrupting and fidgeting aiding in the completion of tasks, and improving relationships. They have also been proven to improve academic performance and reduce absences.
These drugs are usually taken orally. There are two types of these drugs: immediate-release (short acting) and extended-release. Long-acting formulations increase slowly in the bloodstream and wear off more slowly than doses that short-act. This helps avoid what is called the "crash effect" which can happen when the medication is worn off and causes symptoms to come back, like low energy, mood swings and feelings of hunger.
The most commonly used stimulant for adolescents and children is methylphenidate. It is available in pills that can be chewed, swallowed orally, and sometimes delivered via a patch. Adderall and Dexedrine are amphetamines that are more potent and last longer than methylphenidate. There is also atomoxetine, that was recently licensed to be prescribed for adults and children over the age of 5, when other medications don't work or cause unwanted side effects.
Amphetamines can affect the heart and are not suitable for those with heart problems. They can be abused and lead to addiction.
There are nonstimulant medications for ADHD, but these take longer to begin working and don't have the same effect as stimulants. Nonstimulants are usually used in conjunction with the behavioral therapy method, which is often described as multimodal therapy.
Certain studies have demonstrated that a combination between medication and behavior therapy improves the way that people with ADHD function in their daily lives, whether at school, work or at home. The use of medication alone isn't enough to manage the disorder, and many sufferers with ADHD continue to struggle despite taking medication.
In these cases you should talk to your doctor what alternatives to treatment are available. In some cases, these treatments include psychoeducation, which helps teens, children, and adults make sense of their diagnosis of ADHD and provide strategies to deal with it. This is often paired with behavioural therapy and skills training, which can help improve the way that people with ADHD perform at school and in the workplace.
While certain ADHD medications may cause adverse effects, they tend to be mild and temporary. adhd medication ritalin of these go away when the body is used to the medication and if they persist in the future, your doctor might be able to modify the dosage or the type of medication. It is crucial to inform your doctor of any changes in your mood appetite, sleep, or stomach upset you or your child experiences when taking this medication. This information can help your doctor determine the most effective medication for you or your child. This is especially important if you have any other health issues that could interact with the medication or increase your chance of experiencing side effects.