The Next Big Thing In ADHD Medication
ADHD Medication
Medication is often an integral part of an ADHD treatment program. The most commonly used stimulant drugs are methylphenidate and dextro-amphetamine. Each of these medications has numerous brand names and each has a different chemical makeup.
Stimulants work by increasing levels of brain chemicals, which help pass messages between neurons. They are typically the first drugs that healthcare professionals test for adults suffering from ADHD.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the primary medication that doctors prescribe for ADHD. They work by increasing levels of certain brain chemical dopamine, norepinephrine, as well as norepinep. These chemicals help improve focus, reduce aggressive behavior, and increase calmness. Doctors often prescribe amphetamines (including methylphenidate) or Atomoxetine, the class of antidepressants known as selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors for treating ADHD. Heart-related complications that cause heart attacks are uncommon however, doctors can be able to monitor patients with heart problems closely when they are taking stimulants.
Stimulant drugs are usually the most effective treatment for ADHD particularly in children and adolescents. These drugs increase brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine, which helps them concentrate and learn. They also boost energy and increase the amount of alertness. Studies have shown that when taken as directed they can significantly enhance school performance. However, many experts are concerned that students who take stimulants for prolonged durations can develop a tolerance and then require more doses. They can also cause adverse side effects, like changes in appetite, difficulty sleeping, and anxiety or depression.
Doctors who prescribe ADHD medication will usually start with a low dosage and gradually increase it over a period of a few weeks. over the counter adhd medication will want parents and you to monitor the advantages and adverse effects of the medicine. If the medicine doesn't seem to be working, or causes unwanted side effects that you're not able to deal with, your doctor may try another medicine.
The majority of kids and adults who use stimulant medication experience at least some adverse effects. Most of these are mild and disappear after some time or weeks when the body is used to the drug. The most frequent adverse effects include the loss of appetite, trouble sleeping, and an increased heart rate.
Certain studies have found that those who take stimulant medication for ADHD are more prone to tics. These are repetitive movements or noises such as eye blinking or throat clearing. These drugs don't cause tics, but make them more noticeable. ADHD medication can cause occasional changes in voice, headaches, stomach upset and, occasionally, increase or decrease blood pressure or heart rate.
A few nonstimulant medications--including Strattera (atomoxetine) and Qelbree (viloxazine)--have been approved by the FDA to treat ADHD. These drugs perform differently than stimulants. They boost the levels of norepinephrine, a brain chemical that helps to regulate the flow of thoughts and attention. They can help reduce depression, anxiety and bipolar symptoms of bipolar disorder. They have less adverse effects than stimulants, but they're not as effective at treating ADHD symptoms. Your doctor might suggest you try these medications in the event that you suffer from bipolar disorder or depression that is associated with ADHD. They may also recommend psychosocial treatment to help manage your ADHD symptoms and improve your overall quality of life.