ADHD Medications
The use of medications is a crucial part of the treatment of ADHD. They don't cure the disorder but can help control symptoms.
The most frequently used drugs to treat ADHD are stimulants. They help by enhancing the activity in brain areas that regulate attention and behaviour.
Medication can cause side-effects like nausea, increased blood pressure or heartbeat, and the tics. These side effects are usually mild or moderate.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most commonly used drugs to treat ADHD. They are medications that boost the brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine which aid in focusing and reduce the impulsive behavior. They may also cause some temporary side effects, such as weight loss and a rise in heart rate or blood pressure. These medicines can help to reduce the symptoms of ADHD however they do not cure it. Your doctor will recommend the appropriate medication for your child or yourself according to the results of your ADHD assessment as well as your tolerance to the medication's side effects.
There are two main kinds of stimulant medicines amphetamines and methylphenidates. The methylphenidate category includes Adderall and Ritalin. There are short-acting versions these drugs that you take when you need to, and longer-lasting versions like Adderall XR and Vyvanse that are taken daily.
They are safe and are most often prescribed for ADHD. However, they can be misused or abused, and can become addictive. People who don't have ADHD sometimes use them to feel more alert, lose weight, or to get a "buzz" or "high." When people with ADHD take these medications correctly under the guidance of their doctor they will not become addicted.
Finding the right stimulant medicine for you or your children can take time. More suggestions is important to inform your doctor about any side effects you experience. Your doctor will adjust the dosage of your medication and will determine what is best for you.
Side effects of stimulant medications for ADHD include weight loss and sleeplessness, as well as increased blood pressure and heart rate. They can also cause irritability, anxiety, and nervousness, especially at higher doses. These side effects are usually experienced in the first few weeks or days after taking the medication. They will fade as your body gets used to it.
If you have any other health issues your doctor will have to be aware of them prior to prescribing any medicine. If you have a history of or heart disease your doctor might not prescribe stimulants. The same applies if you have anxiety or depression. In these instances your doctor may prescribe a nonstimulant drug or a stimulant in combination with a calming medication like Strattera(atomoxetine) to increase the effectiveness of both.
Nonstimulant medicines for ADHD require a little longer to kick in, but they are less likely to be misused or abused as stimulants. They are prescribed when stimulants don't work or have unpleasant side-effects.
ADHD medications are not available as over-the-counter medications like other medicines. Vitamins or minerals that claim to treat ADHD do not have any scientific basis and may interfere with prescription drugs. Your doctor may suggest specific changes in your diet to assist in managing ADHD symptoms and reduce the need for medication. Your doctor might suggest the use of behavior therapy or training to help you better manage your impulses and keep yourself organized. Combining treatment is usually the most effective method.