ADHD Stimulant Medication
For many people with ADHD, medication helps control symptoms and improve their ability to function.1
Stimulants boost certain brain chemicals that aid in the communication between nerve cells. They also reduce impulsiveness and aggression.
These medicines are available in a variety of forms for both children and adults (e.g. tablets and liquids). It could take a while to determine the appropriate dosage for each individual.
Types
The use of stimulants such as methylphenidate and amphetamine can help ease ADHD symptoms for 70 to 80percent of adults and children (Spencer, et al. 2005). These drugs increase levels of dopamine, and norepinephrine. These medications help alleviate the main symptoms of the disorder, like fidgeting and impulsivity, and difficulties paying attention. They also aid people to achieve their goals and develop better social skills. In general, the drugs are best utilized in conjunction with a treatment plan that includes behavioral therapy and skill training.
Doctors are unable to predict which medication is best for an individual Therefore, they begin by testing different doses to find the one that is effective. It can take up to several weeks for medication to reach their maximum effectiveness. They might have to be adjusted over time depending on how the patient responds and adverse effects. The objective is to find a dose that is effective in managing ADHD symptoms, while remaining as low as possible.
There are three types of stimulant medicines such as immediate-release amphetamine, methylphenidate, intermediate-release Atomoxetine and long-acting dexamphetamine and guanfacine. The medication can be taken as a liquid or capsule, or as a chewable tablet. The three extended-release medicines are available as beads that can be sprinkled on food for children who are having difficulty swallowing tablets or pills.
These medications can cause an increase in appetite and sleepiness. However, they improve with continued use. Sleepiness is a common side effect, but doctors generally not give people this kind of medication at the time of sleeping. Insomnia caused by methylphenidate and amphetamine is more severe in preteens and teenagers parents must be aware for warning signs.
If you have heart problems or other health issues it is crucial to discuss the medications you are taking with your doctor. They can trigger a sudden increase in blood pressure or heart rate, and they shouldn't be taken by people who have a history of substance abuse or psychiatric issues.
The stimulant drugs are likely to be misused, especially by teens who may take them to lose weight or gain a high. This is a serious issue, Siu and Smith say as it puts teens with the right combination of conditions at risk of suffering a heart-related death. It's crucial to educate kids and teens about the dangers of taking someone else's prescription or sharing one with a group of friends. It's also important to consult with a physician to discuss the possibility of abuse.
adhd medication and pregnancy of stimulant medications are taken as pills. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dosage according to your medical conditions, symptoms and other medications, as well as any adverse effects. Many people find that finding the right medication is a trial-and-error process and therefore, open communication with your doctor is important.
A common type of ADHD stimulant is methylphenidates (MPH). These drugs can be prescribed in either long- or short-acting forms and are available in tablets, liquids or chewable tablets. Long-acting formulas can last for up to eight hours. The shorter-acting versions are effective quickly but wear off more quickly. Doctors typically start patients with an initial dose of a small amount, and then gradually increase it until they notice improvements in their symptoms.
Some adults need to take more than one stimulant drug to control their symptoms. Based on the individual, it may be necessary to take the medication along with other treatment options, such as behavioral therapy.
Stimulants have been proven to reduce symptoms of ADHD in 70-80% adults and children. These medications reduce hyperactivity, fidgeting, interrupting and the impulsive behavior. They can also assist people focus and finish tasks. They can improve the quality of relationships and overall functioning.
The FDA has approved a number of amphetamines and methylphenidates for the treatment of ADHD. These medications are generally well tolerated and efficient. However, it is important to remember that these drugs are classified as Schedule II controlled substances by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration because they are prone to misuse and misused.
The use of stimulant drugs is common in conjunction with medications for treating depression or mood disorders. These medications raise levels of norepinephrine - neurotransmitter that helps people control their behavior and concentrate. They can boost attention and reduce the impulsivity of some people with ADHD. However, they are not as efficient as stimulants in reducing hyperactivity and inattention.
Certain people who take these medications experience a drop in energy or feel being "on edge." This is known as the crash effect and can trigger depression, severe hunger, and other unpleasant side effects. It may also occur when a person is coming off an inactive stimulant, particularly in the case of not taking it for a long time or was taking high doses.
Side effects
Stimulant drugs are effective by increasing levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which helps improve attention and control of impulses. The most commonly used stimulants for ADHD are amphetamines or methylphenidates. These medicines include Ritalin Concerta Focalin Adderall. These medications are available in various dosages and forms, such as liquids and pills. Many adults and children use these drugs to manage their symptoms, as well as other treatments such as therapy, training for skills and lifestyle adjustments.
These drugs can cause side effects such as decreased appetite and difficulty sleeping. If you or your child experiences these side effects, you might need to take medication later in the day, eat more during the day, or add snacks. Also, avoid drinking caffeinated drinks. These side effects typically go away within several weeks as your body adjusts to the medicine, and it is important to follow your doctor's instructions regarding dosage and frequency.
Medications are not the only treatment for ADHD, but they can reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity in around 70% to 80 percent of those suffering from the condition. You can also improve your sleeping and finish your schoolwork, and concentrate on tasks with the help of medication. Your doctor will evaluate your symptoms, talk about the benefits and risks of the medication, and track your response to the medication.
The stimulants are classified under the controlled substance category, which means that they have a high risk of addiction and abuse. However, when taken according to your doctor's prescription they do not cause addiction. These drugs are often misused by people who do not suffer from ADHD. They may use them to boost their alertness or to lessen their appetite to lose weight. If taken for medical reasons stimulant medications can be very efficient and secure.
Nonstimulants are not able to increase dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the body. They typically take longer to start working, but they can improve your ability to pay attention and manage impulses. They are less likely than stimulants to be misused. However, they could result in side effects like decreased appetite and difficulty in sleeping. Nonstimulant drugs include Strattera, Qelbree, and Intuniv. Antidepressants can be used alone or combined with stimulants to treat ADHD symptoms.
Overdose
Even when prescribed for a legitimate medical reason, stimulant medications can be abused or misused. People who don't suffer from ADHD could use these medications to increase their alertness, curb their appetites to shed weight, or simply to feel "high." These medications aren't addictive for those with ADHD who receive the appropriate treatment from a doctor. However they can be fatal when taken in large quantities.
Some of the most serious risks that are a result of nonmedical use include the consumption of prescription stimulants which is usually done through mouth, but may also occur when these medicines are crushed and dissolved in water to drink, snorted or inhaled. These kinds of harms are more common in teens who report taking their own prescription of a stimulant or the medication of a person who is not listed on the prescribing information according to research from U.S. poison centers.
Many children, especially young ones, take the stimulant prescribed by their parents or older siblings to feel more alert or stay awake later to study for tests or to get high. These are usually accidents however, they could lead to serious poisoning or heart problems. Children can also get the tablets by stealing from friends or relatives who have prescribed. The tablets can be particularly dangerous for kids who have an existing heart condition or other health problems that can make them sensitive to the drugs' side effects.
These medications are also available without a prescription from dealers in drugs or illegal sellers online. They could contain fake pills that look like prescription stimulants, but contain dangerous illegal substances. These drugs can also be a danger when combined with alcohol or other controlled substances such as opioids.
Encourage patients to read the Medication Guide that will be included with their prescription(s) to find out more about the medication including the warnings and adverse reactions. The guide will also outline how to properly dispose of and store prescriptions that are not used by returning prescriptions to a pharmacy or other authorized disposal sites or facilities. Encourage them to contact the FDA's MedWatch Hotline if they are concerned about their medication or experiencing any side consequences.