14 Common Misconceptions About Adhd Treatment Without Medication
How to Choose the Best ADHD Medication
ADHD symptoms can be relieved through medication. This can increase the amount of a neurotransmitter called Norepinephrine within the brain.
Children with ADHD are most commonly prescribed stimulants.
You can select between either long- or short-acting doses. They are more efficient and last between 8 and 12 hours. They should be taken only once daily. They also minimize the effects of rebound, where symptoms return, often more than before, as the medication wears off.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most common type of prescription medication healthcare professionals utilize to treat ADHD. They increase the levels of neurotransmitters (chemicals) in your brain, which are known as norepinephrine and dopamine. This helps you focus and pay attention.
However, stimulants may cause adverse effects, particularly when used for a long time. Discuss with your doctor the possible side effects of these medications, including changes in mood, appetite, heart rate, and how they affect your sleep.
You could be at risk of developing addiction or misuse if you take stimulant drugs for a prolonged period of time. Addiction is the feeling that you are unable to control your desire to take a drug, even if it has negative adverse effects. Addiction may manifest as a need to take more than what your doctor recommends or being dependent on the substance.
Other health issues that could be caused by the use of stimulant medications include suicidal ideas and depression. If you suspect that you or someone you know could be using these substances to harm themselves or others, you should contact your local police department or other authorities immediately.
Some of the most commonly used stimulants used to treat ADHD are amphetamines and the methylphenidate (brand-name medication Ritalin, Concerta or Dexamphetamine). Amphetamines are available in immediate-release (short-acting) or extended-release (intermediate-acting) tablets, capsules or liquids. These drugs are typically taken once or twice daily.
The longer-acting versions of amphetamines perform better than their less-effective counterparts. They last between six and eight hours, and can help you through the day with fewer "ups and downs."
Extended-release stimulants can be used with an immediate-release medication in the afternoon. This is an excellent option when ADHD symptoms begin to show up late in the daytime or if the medication wears off too early.
To help you sleep A small dose of an elongating stimulant may be taken at bedtime. You shouldn't take this drug if you aren't hungry. It could cause sleep problems and loss of energy.
In the initial stages of treatment, insomnia is a fairly common side effect associated with stimulants. This can be minimized by not taking the medication prior to bedtime and getting enough sleep each night.
Another side effect associated with stimulants is anxiety. It can be moderate to severe and may cause tics. adhd medication methylphenidate are sudden, erratic movements or sounds like eye blinking, throat clearing, or throat clearing. It can also make a history of depression and bipolar disorder.
Although changes in heartbeat and blood pressure are possible, these effects are rarely significant. Your doctor may prescribe an medication to lower your blood pressure and improve your heart function when you start using stimulants for ADHD.
ADHD medication can also cause insomnia. This is less of a problem if you start to take stimulants in conjunction with an ointment prescribed for sleep, or by using a relaxing or meditation technique prior to going to bed.