ADHD Treatment Medication
Treatment for ADHD in adults typically includes psychosocial therapy and medication. The drugs used to treat ADHD can include stimulants and nonstimulants.
Stimulants like methylphenidate and Lisdexamfetamine work on chemical messengers within the brain to improve mood and concentration, and impulse control. Atomoxetine or guanfacine, which are non-stimulant ADHD drugs, are prescribed to teenagers, adults or children who are not responsive to stimulants.
Stimulants
The most commonly used medications to treat ADHD are stimulants. They increase the amount of chemicals (neurotransmitters) in the brain known as dopamine and norepinephrine, which help people pay attention and control their behavior. It has been proven that they can ease ADHD symptoms for 70% to 80% adults and children. This includes the reduction of hyperactivity, fidgeting, and interrupting, helping with tasks and improving relationships. In addition they have been proven to reduce absenteeism as well as improve academic performance.
They are typically taken orally. There are two types of these drugs: immediate-release (short acting) and extended-release. The long-acting version is slowly absorbed into the bloodstream, and wears off more slowly than the shorter-acting dosage. This can help avoid what's known as the "crash effect" which can occur when the person's medication has run its course and triggers symptoms that come back, like low energy, bad mood, and feelings of hunger.
Methylphenidate is the most common stimulant utilized by adolescents and children. It is available in chewable pills, oral patches, and tablets that can be taken in a swallow. adhd uk medication and Dexedrine are amphetamines that are more potent and last for longer than methylphenidate. There is also atomoxetine which can be prescribed to adults and children over five years old, if other medications fail to work or cause unwanted side effects.
Amphetamines can be harmful to the heart, and therefore may not be as suitable for those suffering from heart issues. They can be abused and lead to addiction.
There are medications that aren't stimulant for ADHD however, they take longer to begin working and don't have the same effects as stimulants. Nonstimulants and behavioral therapy are often employed in multimodal treatment.
Certain studies have demonstrated that the combination of medications and behavioral therapy can improve the way people with ADHD perform in their daily life whether at school, work, or at home. The use of medication alone isn't enough to control the condition, and a lot of people suffering from ADHD continue to struggle despite taking medication.
In these situations it is essential to talk to your doctor about other treatments are available. Psychoeducation is one of the methods that can assist children as well as adults to recognize the signs of ADHD and develop strategies to deal with it. This is often combined with behavioural therapy and skill-training to enhance the performance of those suffering from ADHD at work and school.
While certain ADHD medications may cause negative side effects, they tend to be mild and last only a short time. Most side effects fade when the body is accustomed to the medication. If they continue to occur however, your doctor may be able change the dosage or type. It is very important to tell your doctor about any changes in your mood appetite, sleep, or stomach upsets that you or your child experiences while taking this medication. This information will help your doctor find the right medication for you or your child. This is essential, especially in the event that you suffer from other health conditions that can affect the medication and increase the risk of adverse side effects.