ADHD Medications - Add ADHD Stimulants to Your Treatments
Stimulants raise levels of brain chemicals that control behavior. Doctors often prescribe them to treat ADHD symptoms. They can also be used to treat symptoms of depression or anxiety.
Children and teens who do not take their ADHD medication typically experience more severe symptoms. This is why they should know the importance of following doctors the instructions of their doctor.
Stimulants
The most commonly used medication by healthcare professionals to treat ADHD in adults and children is stimulants. They are used to increase the levels of certain chemicals (neurotransmitters) in the brain, such as dopamine and norepinephrine. This helps people focus better and lessens impulse-driven behavior. Around 80% of people with ADHD who take the right dose experience fewer symptoms.
The stimulants that have been approved by the FDA include those from the amphetamine and methylphenidate class. They are considered first-line treatments for the disorder because of years of research that has demonstrated high response rates, good tolerability and safety throughout life as well as a low incidence of adverse reactions. They are non-habit forming and there is very little evidence to suggest that they cause a substance abuse disorder. However, if they are used in higher-than-prescribed amounts, or by people who don't have ADHD, they can lead to serious side effects and even cause brain changes.
These drugs come in different forms, or formulations. The most popular type of stimulant prescribed to treat ADHD is methylphenidate pills. Amphetamines, atomoxetine and amphetamines are also available.
Some of the long-acting versions medications last for up to 16 hours, and can decrease the need for a daily evening or afternoon dose. They can also help to avoid the rapid changes in blood pressure and heart rate that are typical of shorter-acting stimulants. Some people who use these drugs may have a "crash effect" when they stop taking them. This is typically characterized by a sudden and abrupt decrease in energy.
These medications can cause other side effects, including nausea suppression, stomach upset sleep issues dry mouth, and mood swings. In rare instances stimulants can cause tics that get worse. Some children and adolescents who take ADHD medication have an increase in eye blinking, or throat clearing. These are usually not severe and disappear once the body adjusts to the medication. In rare cases ADHD medications can cause children to slow down their growth and become shorter than their peers.
Non-stimulant medications take longer to start working but they don't produce the same sudden bursts energy, and can help improve attention, focus and impulse control over time. They're not controlled substances, so they are less likely to be misused or lead to substance use disorders, but certain people may cause an "crash" or rebound effect when they suddenly stop taking these medications.
Due to the complexity of ADHD medical professionals prescribe multiple medications and monitor the body's reactions to ensure the patient is receiving the correct dose. This is particularly true if the healthcare provider is treating a comorbid illness such as depression or anxiety. For this reason, it's important for a person with ADHD to see an psychiatric specialist on a regular basis until they've found the correct combination of medication and dosage. Talkiatry is an online psychiatry service that matches you with a doctor within a matter of days will help you locate a psychiatrist to evaluate your mental health. medication for adhd can also help you decide whether you should take ADHD medication.