ADHD Treatment Medication
Adults who suffer from ADHD are usually treated by psychosocial therapy and medication. The medications used to treat ADHD include stimulants as well as non-stimulant medications.
Stimulants, such as lisdexamfetamine and methylphenidate, act on chemical messengers in the brain to improve mood concentration, concentration and impulse control. Atomoxetine, or guanfacine both of which are non-stimulant ADHD medications, can be prescribed to teens, adults or children who do not respond to stimulants.
Stimulants
The most commonly used medications to treat ADHD are stimulants. They increase the amount of chemicals (neurotransmitters) in the brain, such as dopamine and norepinephrine, which help people pay attention and control their behavior. They have been shown to ease ADHD symptoms in 70 to 80percent of children and adults. This includes reducing hyperactivity, fidgeting and interrupting, assisting with tasks and enhancing relationships. They have also been proven to improve academic performance and reduce absenteeism.
They are usually taken orally. There are two types of these drugs immediately-release (short acting) and extended-release. The longer-acting ones build up gradually in the bloodstream and then wear off more slowly than short-acting doses. This can prevent the "crash" effect that occurs when a medication wears down and causes symptoms to come back, including low mood feelings of hunger, and a lack of energy.
The most frequently used stimulant for adolescents and children is methylphenidate. It is available in chewable pills, oral patches and tablets that can be swallowed. Adderall and Dexedrine are amphetamines that are more potent and last for longer than methylphenidate. There is also atomoxetine, which was recently approved to be prescribed for adults and children who are older than 5 in cases where other medications do not work or cause unwanted side effects.
Amphetamines can be harmful to the heart, so they may not be as suitable for those suffering from heart issues. They can also be misused and cause addiction.
There are nonstimulant medications for ADHD however, they require a longer time to begin working and don't have the same effect as stimulants. Nonstimulants, along with behavioral therapy, are commonly employed in multimodal treatment.
Some studies have shown the combination of medication and behavior therapy improves the way people suffering from ADHD function in their daily life at school, work, or at home. adhd medications for adults is not enough to control the condition, and a lot of people suffering from ADHD continue to struggle even though they are taking medication.
In these instances, you should discuss with your doctor about other options for treatment are available. In certain cases, these treatments include psychoeducation, which helps children, teenagers and adults understand their diagnosis of ADHD and provide strategies to deal with it. This is often combined with behavioural therapy and skills training, which can help improve the way people suffering from ADHD perform at school and in the workplace.
While certain ADHD medications may cause side effects, these tend to be mild and last only a short time. The majority of these disappear as a person's body gets used to the medication, and if they continue to occur the doctor may be able to alter the dosage or the type of medicine. Tell your doctor if you or your child are experiencing any changes in mood or appetite or if they are having trouble sleeping or having stomach upsets. This information will allow your doctor to determine the right medication for your child or yourself. This is especially important if you have any other health issues that could interact with the medication or increase the chance of experiencing side adverse effects.