The Reasons You're Not Successing At Medication For ADHD
Medication For ADHD - What Are the Side Effects?
Many people who suffer from ADHD have their symptoms improved through medication. However, each person reacts differently to different medications and the adverse reactions can be problematic.
Methylphenidate is part of a group of drugs referred to as stimulants. It increases the levels of a brain chemical that helps regulate the behavior and focus.
Stimulant medication
Stimulant drugs enhance concentration and attention in 70% to the 80% of children and adults who use them. They affect the activity of key neurotransmitters in the brain, like dopamine and norepinephrine. They typically cause an initial rise in blood pressure and heart rate, which lasts for several hours. Many experts recommend starting at a low dose and gradually increase the dosage over the course of several weeks.
Stimant medication is taken by mouth, typically at least once or twice per day. They are generally available in short- and long-acting formulas. Short-acting stimulants peak after a few hours and must be taken 2-3 times a day. Long-acting stimulants last for 8-12 hours and are taken only once every day.
These drugs can cause unwanted adverse side effects like insomnia, loss of appetite and nausea. They can also make people irritable or moody however these effects typically fade with time and are often managed by altering the dosage. In some instances stimulants can trigger changes in personality, like being withdrawn, unfocused or more rigid and obsessive. They may also increase the risk of other mental disorders, including mania and depression.
Most stimulants are controlled drugs and require prescription. They are often misused by adults and teens to achieve performance enhancement, and they can result in addiction if used improperly or not as prescribed. Because of iampsychiatry evaluate the need for stimulant medications and monitor the dosage and side-effects.
Non-stimulant medicine
There are many non-stimulant ADHD treatments, and the best one depends on the person. These prescription medications don't affect the same brain chemicals as stimulants do. Non-stimulants are less likely have negative side effects, but they can take longer to work and last only for 24 hours. The majority 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 help a person learn how to cope with symptoms and develop new coping strategies like controlling impulsivity and stress. BetterHelp, an online therapy platform connects clients with licensed therapists who are trained to treat ADHD and other mental health issues. You can find an therapist within a matter of 48 hours after taking a free online assessment. The use of stimulants or non-stimulants can help those with ADHD reduce impulsivity and improve their ability of focus however they don't solve the root cause. Cognitive mindfulness and behavioral therapy can be used in conjunction with talk therapy to teach people how to manage their unpredictable behavior. These techniques can be learned through an ADHD coach or by experimenting with a therapist who is trained. They can also be taught to parents and caregivers so that they can support the child or adult suffering from ADHD in these areas. In some instances it is recommended to combine medications and talk therapy is the best approach.