ADHD Treatment Medication - Stimulants
Stimulants boost brain chemical levels that aid in concentration, focus and impulse management. They are prescribed in immediate-release or extended-release form by medical professionals. Stimulants include methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) and amphetamine/dexroamphetamine compounds (Adderall, Vyvanse).
These are the drugs most commonly prescribed for adults with ADHD. adhd no medication pair them with antidepressants in order to improve their effectiveness.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the most commonly prescribed prescription drugs that doctors employ to treat ADHD. They help by increasing levels of brain chemicals, known as dopamine and norepinephrine, which allow people to focus and control their impulses. methylphenidate is the most commonly prescribed stimulant medication to treat ADHD in children and adults. It comes in tablet and liquid forms and can be taken up to 2-3 times per every day. The side effects of methylphenidate for teenagers and children could include stomachaches, headaches or changes in appetite. These medications can also raise blood pressure and heart rate, so they shouldn't be used by people with heart issues.
Stimulant drugs can have long-lasting effects and are therefore often used in a formulation with a long-acting effect which means that the medication is released steadily into the body over the course of 8-12 hours. Medications that are long-acting are particularly beneficial for people suffering from ADHD who often miss school, work or family obligations due to their inability to remain on task. They are generally considered safe to use for long-term use doses according to doctors and research has shown that they don't appear to have any negative impact on IQ or social interactions.
Long-term stimulant use can cause changes in personality like the loss of spontaneity and talkativeness, or the reduction of withdrawnness and apathy. It can also cause mood changes, such as depression. This is why health professionals only recommend stimulants for short periods. Certain stimulants can cause addiction.
A newer group of medications for treating ADHD are nonstimulant medicines. They don't directly impact dopamine or norepinephrine instead, they affect a chemical in the brain called noradrenaline. It transmits messages between brain cells. Atomoxetine (trade name Strattera) and guanfacine (trade name Zyprexa) are two examples of nonstimulant medications that are FDA-approved for treatment of ADHD.
Nonstimulant medications take longer time to start working, but once they do, they improve people's ability to concentrate and manage their emotions. They also can reduce symptoms like impulsivity and anxiety. Healthcare providers may prescribe them as a single drug or in combination with stimulants.
Stimulants and nonstimulant medications don't perform the same way for everyone therefore it may take a few times to find the dosage and timetable that works best. Doctors will closely monitor the person's reaction to the medication and may make adjustments as necessary.
The treatment of ADHD is not only about taking medication. It's also important that those suffering from ADHD receive psychosocial therapy. Therapists can teach strategies to manage symptoms and improve relationships, like time management and organizing strategies. They can also assist individuals learn to recognize stress and develop strategies to cope. Certain diets have also been shown to be helpful for people suffering from ADHD. However cutting out food items without consulting a medical professional is not recommended.