ADHD Medications
In addition to counseling and therapy, people with ADHD can benefit from taking certain medications. These medications boost and regulate levels of brain chemicals that improve concentration and decrease hyperactivity.
Every person reacts differently to medicines, so it could take time to find the best one. Your doctor will monitor how the medicine works and will help you create a schedule that suits your requirements.
Stimulants
Certain medications that affect brain chemicals that are involved in ADHD can improve concentration as well as focus and control. Doctors prescribe two kinds of drugs: stimulants and nonstimulants. The kind of medication that's right for you or your child will depend on your medical history and the severity of your symptoms.
The most popular ADHD medication is stimulants. They increase dopamine levels in the brain, which helps improve attention and reduces impulse control and hyperactivity. They are available in both long- and short-acting forms. Short-acting stimulants only work for a few minutes, while long-acting stimulants stay throughout the day in your body.
The majority of children with ADHD use stimulant medication however, they can also be used to treat adults with the disorder. The majority of doctors suggest starting with a small amount and gradually increase it. It could take some time to determine the most effective dose for your child or yourself, and you may require regular follow-up appointments with your doctor to alter the dosage.
The effects of stimulant medications are often mild and go away after some weeks. They can result in a decreased appetite, insomnia, and increased heart rate or blood pressure. Your doctor will discuss with you the possibility of side effects in the event that you or your child has a medical condition which increases the risk.
In some cases stimulants in high doses can cause sudden spikes in heart palpitations, blood pressure or even seizures. These medications are not recommended for people who have family history of heart disease or those with a history of drug abuse. Stimulants can also exacerbate some psychiatric conditions, including depression and bipolar disorder, so you should discuss with your doctor whether they're appropriate for you or your child.
Non-stimulant ADHD medications are less likely to have serious side effects and are often regarded as an alternative treatment for those who don't respond well to stimulants. They include the atomoxetine (Strattera) as well as Clonidine (Kapvay) or guanfacine (Intuniv). Sometimes, they are prescribed "off-label" to treat other disorders such as depression or anxiety disorders.
Drisperidone and methylphenidate are the most commonly prescribed drugs to treat ADHD. Both are available in tablet, liquid, and capsule form. Tablets are typically taken daily, either once or twice by mouth. Atomoxetine and Guanfacine are both available as extended-release tablets that you or your child could wear on the hip (Intuniv and Intuniv XR). click through the up coming document are intended to be worn for several weeks at a time until they are required to be replaced. All ADHD medication comes with a risk. They might not work or have side effects. For a large number of people, particularly adolescents and children The risks are more significant than the benefits. The ability to focus, concentrate and control impulses is an important asset for many people.