ADHD And Medication It's Not As Hard As You Think
adhd medication uk and Medication
The medications can help people with ADHD manage hyperactivity and hyperactivity, and also accomplish tasks. They can also reduce anxiety and depression.
The most frequently prescribed medicines to children and teens suffering from ADHD are stimulants. They include amphetamines (such as Adderall and Dexedrine) and methylphenidates (such as Focalin and Ritalin). Doctors monitor children closely to check for addiction.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the medications doctors typically prescribe for ADHD. They are believed to improve the activity in areas of the brain that regulate attention and behavior. Methylphenidate, the most commonly prescribed drug for ADHD is also available in amphetamines and the newest medication called quebrachine (brand names Quelbree). These medicines may be prescribed in long-acting formulations or with extended release, so that they build up slowly and are released gradually. This will minimize the risk of side effects and reduce chances of a sudden "rebound” effect as the drug wears away.
Researchers believe stimulants can help those suffering from ADHD because they increase levels of dopamine, which is a neurotransmitter in the brain. Dopamine is believed to improve concentration and focus, and reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. These medications may also increase the activity of the neurons that send signals to the nucleus accumbens which is involved in motivation, pleasure and reward.
According to research, people who suffer from ADHD might have lower dopamine levels in their frontal cortex. This is the area of the brain that is responsible for "executive functions" like planning and organisation. This can cause difficulties with managing time and completing tasks, as well being a struggle in suppressing emotions and controlling impulses. Researchers have also discovered that stimulant drugs can enhance the function of the frontal cortex of those with ADHD. This is accomplished by blocking dopamine and norepinephrine reuptake.
Certain people with ADHD are not able to respond to stimulant medication or are not tolerant of them. This could be due to the risk of abuse or addiction or intolerance to certain side effects, such as insomnia and jitteriness. In these instances, alternative medications may be offered, including atypical antidepressants such as Wellbutrin and tricyclic antidepressants. These are often prescribed "off-label" for ADHD as they are believed to improve attention in certain patients and have a low chance of addiction or misuse.
In certain instances psychoeducation can be provided that aims to assist children, teenagers and adults recognize the diagnosis and manage their symptoms. Therapists may employ behavioral therapy to help patients change their behavior and habits.
There's a lot of debate over whether ADHD exists at all and, if it does exist, what the causes may be. Some people are urging stricter diagnostic criteria and the prohibition of prescribing stimulants to those who don't meet them, while others are recommending non-stimulant treatments that are just as effective and have less side consequences. There is an increasing movement to encourage more behavioral modification. This is more effective in the long run than prescription medications. This can include a variety of psychological strategies, including cognitive behavior therapy and problem solving skills training. This could include parenting skills that can reduce distraction and impulsiveness at home. Other methods of behavior modification, like family therapy and training based on rewards can also be beneficial.