10 Things You've Learned From Kindergarden That Will Aid You In Obtaining Medication For ADHD
Medication For ADHD - What Are the Side Effects?
Many people suffering from ADHD have a decrease in symptoms when they take medication. Every person's reaction to medication is different, and side effects can be a problem.
Methylphenidate is part of a class of drugs referred to as stimulants. It works by increasing levels of a substance in the brain that assists in controlling the behavior and attention.
Stimulant medication
Stimulants enhance attention and concentration in 70 to 80percent of adults and children who use them. They affect neurotransmitters, such as norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. They usually cause an initial rise in blood pressure and heart rate, which lasts for several hours. Due to this, experts recommend that patients start low and build up to the recommended dosage over the course of weeks.
Stimulant medication is consumed orally, typically once or two times a day. There are short-acting as well as long-acting versions for most stimulants. Short-acting stimulants peak after a few hours and must be taken 2-3 times a day. Long-acting stimulants last between 8 and 12 hours and are taken once per day.
These drugs may cause unwanted adverse effects, like nausea, insomnia and loss of appetite. Some people may become irritable or moody. However the effects typically disappear over time and are able to be controlled by adjusting the dosage. In adhd medications for adults can trigger changes in personality, for example becoming more withdrawn, irritable or becoming more rigid and obsessive. They can also increase the risk of other psychiatric issues, such as mania and depression.
Most stimulants are controlled drugs and require a prescription. Adolescents and adults misuse stimulants to boost their performance. They can develop addiction when they are not utilized in a proper manner or according to the prescription. Due to these risks, doctors must carefully assess the need for stimulant medication and keep track of the dosage and adverse effects.
Non-stimulant medicine
There are a variety of non-stimulant ADHD medicines that are available, and the one that is most effective is dependent on the individual. These medications do not alter the same brain chemicals as stimulants do. Non-stimulants are less likely to cause negative side effects, but they can take longer to work and only last for a period of 24 hours. The majority of these drugs are able to increase the levels of norepinephrine in the brain. This includes antidepressants like bupropion (Wellbutrin), nortriptyline, and Pamelor.
Psychotherapy
Therapy can help a person learn how to manage symptoms and learn new coping skills like managing stress and impulsivity. BetterHelp, an online therapy service connects people with licensed therapists trained to treat ADHD and other mental health disorders. Get a free assessment and be an appointment with a therapist within less than 48 hours. The use of stimulants and non-stimulants can help people with ADHD improve their ability to concentrate and decrease impulsivity, however they do not address the underlying causes of the disorder. Cognitive mindfulness and behavioral therapy can be utilized in conjunction with therapy to help people learn how to manage their impulsive behavior. These techniques can be learned through an ADHD coach or by practicing them with a trained therapist. Parents and caregivers can learn these techniques to assist their child or adult with ADHD. In some instances it is recommended to combine medications and talk therapy is the best option.