Finding the Right Medication For ADHD
Many people who suffer from ADHD focus and pay attention, as well as manage their impulses. Medicines affect everyone differently. It can take a while to determine the appropriate medication and dosage.
Methylphenidate medications (Ritalin, Adderall, and other brands) increase dopamine levels in the brain and increase concentration. These are the most commonly used ADHD treatments.
Stimulants
The effects of stimulants increase the levels certain chemicals in the brain called catecholamines [3*] (dopamine noradrenaline, dopamine, and epinephrine). This boosts their effects on energy, concentration and general mood which makes it easier for people suffering from ADHD to complete their tasks. These medications can also enhance the ability of a person to learn and decrease symptoms like impulsivity and excessive activity. These medications are closely monitored due to the possibility of misuse. Only psychiatrists, paediatricians or neurologists can prescribe them in Australia (GPs in certain circumstances) and a thorough examination must be conducted prior to when they are approved for use.
adhd and medication used kind of stimulant used to treat ADHD is the methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta, and Focalin). It works by increasing activity in parts of the brain that are involved in behavior and attention. It comes as immediate-release tablets that are taken 2 to 3 times a day, and as patches or tablets with extended release (taken once a day in the morning with the medication slowly released throughout the day). These drugs are available in liquid forms like Ritalin Ready-to-Swallow. This is a great option for children who have difficulty swallowing pills. Daytrana Patch is a long-acting version of the medication that can be taken by kids who forget their medications in the evening.
These medicines aid around 70% to 80 percent of children and adults with ADHD. They help reduce symptoms like the tendency to fidget and trouble paying attention. They do not cure ADHD and the symptoms may return once the medication wears off. It's important that you adhere to the dosage prescribed and don't discontinue taking it or alter the dosage without your doctor's approval.
The majority of people do not experience side reactions when taking these medicines but they can happen. If they do, they usually occur within the first few days or weeks of taking a new medication or when the dosage is increased. They can disappear on their own, or a doctor might decide to modify the medication or decrease the dosage.
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) which regulates stimulant medicines, classifies them as Schedule II drugs. This means that they pose a high risk for abuse and dependency. But, when they are taken according to the prescription, they can help people with ADHD to focus, complete their work, and build excellent social skills. They can even make a difference in the lives of people who don't have ADHD.
It can take a while to find the best dosage and medication for a particular person, particularly in the case of other medical conditions or takes other medications. It's important to tell a health care provider about any medications you or your child is taking, including prescription medications and drinks with caffeine. This will help them monitor the effectiveness and be aware of any potentially harmful or uncomfortable side effects. It is also essential to discuss any behavioural or emotional problems you or your child may be experiencing with a medical doctor. This will allow them to get the best results from the medication.