Why All The Fuss Over Medication For ADHD?
Medications and Therapy For ADHD
Combining medication and therapy can help to manage ADHD. Medications treat the brain, while therapy helps people develop techniques and manage.
The stimulants like methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine increase the levels of two chemicals that transmit messages between cells within the brain. This can increase attention, impulse control and motivation. The stimulants can have negative side effects like weight loss, difficulty sleeping, and an increase in heart rate and blood pressure.
Stimulants
Stimulants are often the first medication used to treat ADHD. They increase levels of norepinephrine and dopamine which aid the brain to function normally. best adhd medication for adults enhance focus and reduce the frequency of interruptions, hyperactivity, and fidgeting. They can also improve relationships, aid in completing tasks and get organized. The effects are not long-lasting and may cause serious side-effects. Some people, especially those with a history of bipolar disorder or depression can have personality changes when taking these drugs. They may be withdrawn, listless or rigid, less spontaneous and talkative or develop symptoms of obsessive compulsive. They may also increase blood pressure and heart rate. These adverse effects are more likely to occur in people who suffer from heart problems. They must be monitored closely by their doctor when taking stimulants.
Stimulants come in short- and long-acting doses. Those that peak after several hours need to be taken every day for a minimum of 3 times, whereas long-acting or extended release drugs work for 8-12 hours and can be taken just once daily. Both kinds can have negative effects, including on sleep, appetite and growth. Talk to your doctor before taking either type regarding the potential side effects.
It can take time to determine the appropriate dosage and medication for a person who suffers from ADHD Be patient. Your doctor will test a variety of medications in small doses, to determine which one controls the symptoms best and has the smallest amount of adverse effects. They may have to adjust the dosage, depending on how your child or you responds.
The side effects of ADHD medication can be severe or a nuisance, but they usually disappear after a few weeks or days as your body gets familiar with the medication. Side effects of ADHD medicine include stomach upset, a loss of appetite, increased blood pressure, heart rate and tics. Certain adolescents and children who take stimulants may suffer from a slower growth and some slight delays in their final height.
If you stop taking the medicine and experience symptoms, they could be recurred. It's important that you discuss with your doctor whether it's better for your child or yourself to continue. You should also check in with your physician to make sure that the medication is working as intended and there aren't any side effects or problems.
Non-stimulant ADHD medications require longer time to work however they can help enhance attention and reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity. Although they don't carry the same potential for abuse or dependence as stimulants do, they increase the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain.
Some states have laws that require doctors to monitor patients taking certain medications, such as ADHD medicines. These laws require that doctors meet with you or your child frequently, either in person, or via phone, in order to ensure that the medication is safe and effective, and to monitor the patient's development. In addition to assessing the effectiveness of your or your child's ADHD medication, they may also be looking for other indications and signs of problems such as depression, anxiety or suicidal ideas.
