20 Things You Should Know About Medication For ADHD

Medication For ADHD - What Are the Side Effects?

Many people with ADHD find their symptoms improve by taking medication. But every person reacts differently to various drugs and adverse effects can be a problem.

Methylphenidate is a stimulant. It is a stimulant that increases levels of a chemical in the brain that helps regulate the behavior and focus.

Stimulant drugs

Stimulant medication can improve concentration and attention for 70 to 80% of children and adults who take it. They affect neurotransmitters, such as norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. They usually cause an initial increase in blood pressure and heart rate that lasts for several hours. Many experts suggest starting at a low dose and gradually increase the dosage over a period of time.

Stimant medications are typically taken orally, one or twice a day. They are generally available in long- and short-acting formulas. Short-acting stimulants peak after a short time and are required to be taken three times a day. Long-acting stimulants last 8-12 hours and are taken twice every day.

These drugs can cause undesirable adverse effects, such as anxiety, insomnia and nausea. They may also make some people moody or angry however these effects typically fade with time and are often managed by altering the dosage. In some cases stimulants can trigger changes in personality, like becoming more withdrawn, irritable or more rigid and obsessive. They may also raise the risk of developing other psychiatric issues, such as depression and mania.

The majority of stimulants are controlled substances, and require prescriptions to be obtained. Adults and adolescents abuse stimulants to boost their performance. They can develop addiction if they are not used properly or as prescribed. Due to these dangers, doctors are attentive to determine the need for stimulant medications and to monitor dosage and adverse effects closely.

Non-stimulant drugs

There are a variety of non-stimulant ADHD medications that are available, and the one that is most effective is determined by the individual. These prescription medications do not alter the same brain chemicals as stimulants do. Non-stimulants are less likely cause negative side effects, but they can take longer to effect and last only for 24 hours.  simply click the following webpage  are mostly effective by increasing the level of norepinephrine in the brain, and include antidepressants such as bupropion (Wellbutrin) and nortriptyline (Aventyl and Pamelor).

Psychotherapy

Talk therapy can assist a person in learning how to cope with symptoms and learn new coping skills like controlling impulsivity and stress. BetterHelp, an online therapy platform connects clients with licensed therapists trained to treat ADHD and other mental health disorders. You can find a therapist within 48 hours after completing a free online assessment. Stimulant or non-stimulant medications can help those with ADHD reduce their impulsivity and increase their ability of focus, but they do not solve the root cause. In addition to talking therapy, cognitive behavior therapy and mindfulness-based therapies can teach a person strategies to manage their an impulsive personality and improve their ability to manage their emotions. These techniques can be taught by an ADHD coach or practiced with a certified therapist. Parents and caregivers can learn these techniques so they can assist their child or adult who suffers from ADHD. In some instances it is recommended to combine medication and therapy is the best approach.