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Medication For ADHD - What Are the Side Effects?
Many people suffering from ADHD have a decrease in symptoms when they use medication. But each person reacts differently to different medications, and side effects can be troublesome.
Methylphenidate belongs to a class of drugs referred to as stimulants. It is a stimulant that increases levels of a substance in the brain that assists in controlling the behavior and attention.
Stimulant medications
Stimulant medications improve attention and concentration for 70% to 80% of children and adults that use it. They work by altering neurotransmitters like norepinephrine or dopamine in the brain. Typically, they trigger an initial increase in blood pressure and heart rate which lasts for a long time. Many experts suggest that you begin with a low dose and gradually increase the dose over a period of time.
Stimant medications are taken by mouth, usually at least once or twice per day. There are short-acting and long-acting versions for most stimulants. Short-acting stimulants are most effective after a short time and are required to be taken three times per day. Long-acting stimulants last between 8 and 12 hours and are taken only once every day.
These drugs can cause undesirable adverse effects, such as nausea, insomnia and nausea. They can also make people irritable or moody however these effects typically fade with time and are often managed by adjusting the dosage. In some instances, stimulants can cause changes in personality, such as being withdrawn, unfocused or more rigid and obsessive. They may also increase the risk of developing other mental disorders, including depression and mania.
The majority of stimulants are controlled substances and require a prescription. They are frequently used by adolescents and adults for the purpose of performance enhancement, and can result in addiction if used in a way that is not prescribed. Because of these dangers, doctors must be careful to evaluate the need for stimulant drugs and monitor the dosage and side effects carefully.
Non-stimulant medications
There are a myriad of non-stimulant ADHD medications available, and the one that is best for you depends on your individual needs. These prescription medications do not affect the same brain chemicals that stimulants do. Non-stimulants cause less side effects but can take longer to act and last for only 24 hours. Most of these drugs operate by increasing the amount of norepinephrine in the brain. This includes antidepressants, such as bupropion (Wellbutrin) nortriptyline and Pamelor.
Psychotherapy
Talk therapy can assist a person in learning how to cope with symptoms and develop new coping skills that include managing stress and impulsivity. BetterHelp, an online therapy platform connects clients with licensed therapists trained to treat ADHD and other mental health conditions. You can find a therapist within 48 hours after completing a free online assessment. Stimulant and non-stimulant medication can help those with ADHD improve their ability to concentrate and reduce impulsivity, however they don't address some of the root causes of the disorder. Cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness can be utilized in conjunction with talk therapy to teach people how to manage their unpredictable behavior. These techniques can be taught by an ADHD coach, or practiced by a trained therapist. medication for adhd adults and caregivers can learn these techniques to help their child or adult with ADHD. In certain cases, a combination between medication and talk therapy may be the best approach.