10 Misconceptions Your Boss Holds About ADHD Medication ADHD Medication
ADHD Medication
Medication is usually a part of an ADHD therapy plan. The most commonly used stimulant medications are methylphenidate as well as dextro-amphetamine. Each of these stimulant drugs has a variety of brand names and each has a distinct chemical makeup.
Stimulants boost brain chemicals that aid in transmitting messages between neurons. These are the first medication that healthcare professionals usually test for adults suffering from ADHD.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the first drugs most doctors prescribe to treat ADHD. They work by increasing the levels of certain brain chemicals, such as norepinephrine and dopamine, that help improve focus, reduce impulsive behavior, and promote peace. Doctors often use amphetamines (including methylphenidate) or atomoxetine, which belongs to a class of antidepressants referred to as selective norepinephrine receptor inhibitors to treat ADHD. Although serious heart complications are rare, doctors may closely monitor people with heart problems when they are taking stimulants.
Stimulant drugs are usually the most effective treatment for ADHD, especially for adolescents and children. These medications increase brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine, helping them concentrate, focus, and learn. They also boost energy and improve wakefulness. These drugs, when taken as prescribed, can improve school performance. However, many experts are concerned that students who take stimulants for long durations can develop a tolerance and then require greater doses. They may also trigger negative side effects, including changes in appetite, difficulties sleeping, anxiety, or depression.
Doctors who prescribe ADHD medication typically start with a small dosage and gradually increasing the amount over a few weeks. You and your parents will be asked to keep track of the effects of side effects and benefits of the medication. If the medication does not seem to work or has side effects that you aren't able to manage Your doctor may suggest other medications.
The majority of children and adults who are taking stimulant drugs experience at the very least some side effects. Most of these are mild and disappear after some time or weeks as the body gets used to the medication. Some of the more frequent side effects include weight loss, trouble sleeping, and a high heart rate.
Certain studies have found that those who take stimulant medication for ADHD are more prone to tics. These are repeated sounds or movements such as eye blinking or throat clearing. However, these drugs don't cause tics; they make them more obvious. ADHD medications can also trigger an occasional change in voice, headaches, stomach upset and occasionally raise or lower blood pressure or heart rate.
A few nonstimulant medications--including Strattera (atomoxetine) and Qelbree (viloxazine)--have been approved by the FDA to treat ADHD. These medications act differently than stimulants, increasing levels of norepinephrine. It is another brain chemical that helps with attention and impulse control. They can alleviate symptoms of anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder. They have fewer side effects than stimulants, but they aren't as effective at treating ADHD symptoms. Your doctor may suggest that you try one of these medications for bipolar disorder or depression that is associated with ADHD. knowing it may also recommend psychosocial treatments to manage your symptoms and improve your life quality.
