ADHD Treatment Medication - Stimulants
Stimulants boost the levels of brain chemicals that aid concentration, focus and control of impulses. They are prescribed in extended-release or immediate release form by medical professionals. Stimulants include methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) and amphetamine/dexroamphetamine compounds (Adderall, Vyvanse).
These are the most frequently used medications prescribed to adults with ADHD. They are often paired with antidepressants prescribed by doctors to increase their effectiveness.
Stimulants
The most commonly prescribed medication used by healthcare professionals to treat ADHD is stimulants. They boost brain chemicals, including dopamine and norepinephrine. These chemicals help people control their impulses and focus. The most frequently prescribed stimulant medication for adults and children with ADHD is methylphenidate. It comes in tablet form and liquid forms. It can be taken up to 3 times a every day. Teenagers and children who take methylphenidate can have side effects, such as headaches, stomachaches or changes in appetite. These medicines can also increase blood pressure and heart rate and shouldn't be taken by people with known heart issues.
Stimulant medicines can have a long-lasting impact. They are typically prescribed as a long-acting formulation that means the drug is released slowly into the body for a period of 8 to 12 hours. Long-acting drugs are especially beneficial for those suffering from ADHD who frequently miss school, work or other family obligations due to their inability to remain on task. They are generally considered safe to take long-term in appropriate doses by doctors and research has shown that they do not have any negative impact on IQ or social interactions.
Long-term stimulant use can lead to personality changes that include the loss of spontaneity and talkativeness or the reduction of withdrawnness and apathy. It can also cause mood changes, including depression. This is why doctors only recommend using stimulants for short periods. In some instances, those who are on stimulants can develop a dependence on the drug.
A newer class of drugs for treating ADHD are nonstimulant medicines. These drugs don't directly affect dopamine or norepinephrine, but instead the chemical noradrenaline is present in the brain transmits messages between brain cells. Atomoxetine (trade name Strattera) and guanfacine (trade name Zyprexa) are two examples of non-stimulant drugs that are FDA-approved for treatment of ADHD.
adhd medications Iampsychiatry take longer time to begin to work, but once they do, they will enhance the ability of people to concentrate and control their emotions. They can also reduce symptoms like impulsivity and anxiety. Healthcare professionals can prescribe them as a single drug or in combination with stimulants.
Nonstimulant and stimulant medications don't perform in the same way for everyone therefore it may require a few tries to find the dosage and timetable that is effective. Doctors closely monitor the patient's reaction to medication and make adjustments if necessary.
The treatment for ADHD is not only about taking medication. It's also important that the person with ADHD receive psychosocial therapy. Therapists can teach skills to help manage symptoms and improve relationships, such as time management and organizational strategies. They can assist a person identify stress and develop strategies for coping. There are also certain diets that have been proven to help people suffering from ADHD however, removing foods without medical advice is not recommended.