ADHD Treatment Medication: A Simple Definition
ADHD Treatment Medication
Stimulants are designed to stimulate two brain chemicals, dopamine as well as norepinephrine, which improve concentration and decrease the impulsivity. These medicines are the primary treatment for ADHD that affects children and adults.
Certain people experience side effects when taking these medicines. They usually disappear within a few days or weeks. Before beginning any medication, it's essential to discuss potential side effects with your doctor.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase the levels of certain chemicals in the brain that help people focus, control their impulses and improve their ability to plan and manage their time. This class of medication is most commonly used to treat ADHD and includes medications such as dextroamphetamines (Adderall), atomoxetines (Provigil) and methylphenidates (Ritalin).
The medication can start working within 30 to 45 minutes and last for up to 4 hours. Some short-acting stimulants are available in pill form, while others are available as liquids or chewable tablets. When the effects of these substances wear off, people may be experiencing "the crash effect" which can trigger extreme mood swings or hunger.
In studies, stimulants can reduce ADHD symptoms in 70 - 80percent of children and adults who take them. They can reduce hyperactivity, interruptions and fidgeting. They can also help with staying focused, completing schoolwork, and enhancing relationships with colleagues, family members, and friends. The pills do not cure the root causes that lead to ADHD. Patients who are taking them are advised to use other methods of treatment.
A stimulant drug can be addictive. The likelihood of addiction varies depending on the individual. It is not recommended to stop taking their medication without consulting with a doctor especially if they've been taking the medication for a long time. It can take several weeks or even months to determine the appropriate dosage of medication for each individual.
The most effective treatment for ADHD is medication. Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, can teach coping skills to manage symptoms and alter bad habits. Some people find cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helpful as trained therapists try to change how a patient perceives situations that trigger symptoms.
CBT can be practiced as individual sessions or group therapy. There are also apps that permit you to practice CBT at your home. CBT is something that those who are interested in it should discuss with their doctor.
Other types of psychotherapy can be beneficial to those with ADHD. how to get adhd medication uk include motivational interviewing, interpersonal and dialectical behavioral therapy, and therapy that is focused on families. However, these types of therapy haven't been proven to be as effective as stimulants.
Non-stimulant drugs
Some doctors prescribe non-stimulant medications to treat ADHD because they are less likely to be misused or become addicted. They may not be as powerful as stimulants and it isn't easy to find the appropriate dosage for each person.
These medications aren't available over the counter, and you should not try to obtain them without a prescription from a doctor. In addition, certain supplements and vitamins claim to aid in ADHD but there's no evidence to suggest they actually do. In fact, some may interact with stimulant medications.