Medications and Therapy For ADHD
A combination of therapy and medication can help manage ADHD symptoms. The medication treats the brain while therapy helps people cope and develop skills.
Stimulants like methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine, increase levels of two chemical substances in the brain that pass messages between cells. This increases attention and impulse control. The stimulants can have negative side effects like an increase in appetite, trouble sleeping, and an increased heart rate and blood pressure.
Stimulants
Stimulants are typically the first medication used to treat ADHD. adhd medications increase levels of dopamine and norepinephrine which aid the brain to function normally. These medicines help improve focus and decrease hyperactivity, interrupting, and fidgeting. They can also assist people organize their lives, complete tasks and enhance relationships. The effects aren't long-lasting and may cause severe side-effects. Certain people, especially those who have an underlying bipolar disorder or depression, might experience personality changes when taking these medications. They may become introverted, unfocused or rigid, less spontaneous and talkative or develop symptoms of obsessive compulsive. They may also increase blood pressure and heartbeat. These side effects are more likely to occur in those who suffer from heart problems. They should be closely monitored by their physician while taking stimulants.
Short-acting stimulants are available in two doses. Those that peak after several hours should be taken every day for a minimum of 3 times, while long-acting or extended-release medications last for between 8 and 12 hours and can be taken only once a day. Both can have negative effects on growth, appetite, and sleep, so it's vital to talk with your doctor about how the medication could affect your child or you prior to starting it.
It can take time to determine the appropriate dosage and medication for a person who suffers from ADHD and other disorders, so take your time. Your doctor will test a variety of medications in small doses to determine which one controls the symptoms the best and has the smallest amount of adverse effects. They may also need to adjust the dosage according to your or your child's reaction.
The side effects of ADHD medication can be uncomfortable or serious, but most will disappear after a few weeks as your body adjusts to the medicine. Common side effects include stomach upset, appetite loss, increased blood pressure and heart rate and tics (sudden repetition of movements or sounds like eye blinking or clearing of the throat). Some children and teenagers who take stimulants might suffer from a decrease in growth or a slight delay of their final height.
If you stop taking the medicine and experience symptoms, they could return. It's important that you consult your physician to determine if it's best for your child or yourself to continue. It is also important to check with your physician to make sure that the medication is working as intended and there aren't any side negative effects or issues.
Non-stimulant drugs for ADHD require more time to work than stimulants, but they can boost concentration and decrease impulsivity and hyperactivity. Although they don't have as much of a potential for abuse or dependence as stimulants do, they increase levels of dopamine as well as norepinephrine in the brain.
Certain states have laws that require doctors to keep track of patients who are taking certain medications. This includes ADHD medications. These laws require doctors to see you or your child regularly in person or via phone, in order to ensure that the medication is safe and effective and to evaluate the patient's improvement. In addition to monitoring the effectiveness of your your child's ADHD medication, they can also be looking for other signs and symptoms of problems, including depression, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts.
