ADHD Medications
The use of medications is a key element in the treatment of ADHD. They can't cure the disorder, but they can help control symptoms and enhance a person's ability to perform.
The most frequently used drugs to treat ADHD are stimulants. They work by increasing brain activity in areas that control attention, behaviour and other functions.
Some medications can cause side effects such as nausea, increased heart rate or blood pressure and the tics. adhd medication and pregnancy are typically mild to moderate.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most frequently used drugs to treat ADHD. These drugs increase brain chemicals like norepinephrine as well as dopamine, which helps people focus and reduces impulse-driven behaviors. They may also cause some temporary side effects, such as loss of appetite and an increase in blood pressure or heart rate. These medications can quickly improve the symptoms of ADHD, but they don't solve it. Your doctor will prescribe a medication based on your ADHD assessment results and your tolerance for the adverse effects of the medication.
There are two primary types of stimulant medications amphetamines and methylphenidates. The methylphenidate group includes Adderall and Ritalin. There are short-acting variants of these drugs that you can take when you need to, and longer-lasting versions like Adderall XR and Vyvanse that are taken every day.
These medications are the most commonly used and effective treatments for ADHD however they have a high potential for misuse, abuse, and addiction. People who don't suffer from ADHD sometimes use them to feel more alert, lose weight, or to get an "buzz" or "high." When people with ADHD make use of these medications in a controlled manner under the guidance by their physician they don't become addicted.
Stimulant medications can have many different side effects, and choosing the best one for your child or yourself requires time. It is important to inform your doctor about any adverse reactions you may experience. Your doctor will alter the dosage of your medication and will determine the best dosage for you.
Side effects of stimulant medications for ADHD include weight loss and sleeplessness, as well as an increase in heart rate and blood pressure. They can also cause irritability or anxiety, particularly in higher doses. These side effects are typically felt in the initial few weeks or days of taking the medication and will disappear when your body is accustomed to it.
Your doctor will have to consider your other health conditions before prescribing a medicine. If you have a history or heart disease or heart disease, your doctor will not prescribe stimulants. The same applies for those suffering from depression or anxiety. In these instances your doctor could prescribe a non-stimulant or pair a stimulant with an anti-anxiety medication like Strattera (atomoxetine) to increase their effectiveness.
Nonstimulant ADHD medications take a longer to take effect however, they are less likely than stimulants to be misused or abused. They are often prescribed when stimulants do not work or cause unpleasant side effects.
ADHD medication is not available over-the-counter as are other medicines. Vitamins and minerals claimed to treat ADHD are not supported by science and may interfere with prescription medications. Your doctor can recommend specific diet changes that will help manage ADHD symptoms and decrease the need for medication. Your doctor may also suggest the use of behavior therapy and training to help you improve your ability to control impulses and organize your life. Combining treatment is typically the most effective approach.