A Guide To Add ADHD Medications From Beginning To End
Add ADHD Medications
70 percent to 80% of adults and children with ADHD benefit from stimulant medications. They decrease the tendency to fidget, interrupt and other problem behaviors, and improve concentration and focus.
The effects of side effects are common, but they are usually minor and disappear as time passes. They include upset stomach, changes in blood pressure and heart rate as well as Tics (quick repetitive movements or sounds) and anxiety.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase the levels of certain chemicals in the brain to help you stay awake, focus and be active. They are the most frequently used adhd medication and can be beneficial for adults and kids with ADHD. They can also be used to treat narcolepsy, obesity and depression.
There are many types of stimulants, but they all work in the same way. They target dopamine, a neurotransmitter (brain chemical) that plays a role in motivation and the control of behavior and movement. When taken in the dose prescribed they can ease ADHD symptoms in about 70 to 80percent of people. They reduce distracting behaviors such as fidgeting, interrupting and distracting and increase the likelihood of following directions and completing tasks.
medication for adults with add of stimulants are part of the methylphenidate family, which includes Ritalin, Concerta and Focalin, as well as other brand-name drugs. The other major group is the amphetamines, which include Adderall, Dexedrine and others. There are a number of kinds of these medicines including liquid, chewable tablets, and even a skin patch for kids. Schedule II drugs include amphetamine, methylphenidate and other groups. This means that they are prone to abuse. Research has shown that people who take adhd medication according to the prescription are less likely to develop addiction disorders.
Although stimulants aren't thought to be habit-forming however, they can trigger side effects such as headaches, stomach upsets, and changes in heart rate and blood pressure. They can also affect sleep and appetite. Consult your doctor if you suffer from heart problems or high blood pressure prior to taking these medicines.
Stimulant medications can interfere with certain drugs used to treat psychiatric disorders like antidepressants and mood stabilizers. Tell your doctor all the medications you take, including vitamins, over-the-counter drugs and supplements.
Some people have to alter their dosage periodically in case they are having difficulty getting the correct dosage. The doctor can also switch the kind of medication you're taking, or alter the timing of when it is taken.
Combining stimulants with medications to treat co-occurring disorders can enhance results. Your doctor will determine whether you require a comorbid treatment option based on your specific needs and symptoms.
Anxiety and depression are the most frequently comorbid conditions treated with stimulants. In some instances, a neurologist or psychiatrist might be involved in your treatment according to the severity of your comorbid disorder.
The referral to specialists can help you receive the best treatment. A psychologist or psychiatrist can help determine if you are in need of treatment for psychiatric disorders and make sure you are taking the correct dosage of medication. If your symptoms point to neurological disorders, such as seizures, they will refer you to a neuroologist. Additionally, they can offer support and resources to manage a mental health problem. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all children who require ADHD treatment be referred a mental health professional.