ADHD Medications - Add ADHD Stimulants to Your Treatments
Stimulants increase levels of brain chemicals that control behavior. Doctors prescribe stimulants to treat ADHD symptoms. They can also be used in the treatment of depression or anxiety.
Children and teens who do not take their ADHD medication are often afflicted with more symptoms. It's important that they understand the importance of following their medical advice.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most common type of medication healthcare providers employ to treat ADHD in children and adults. They are used to increase the levels of certain chemicals (neurotransmitters) in the brain, such as dopamine and norepinephrine. This aids in concentration and reduces impulsive behaviors. Around adhd treatment medication of ADHD sufferers who are taking the right dosage have fewer ADHD symptoms.
FDA-approved stimulants include those in the methylphenidate and amphetamine drug class. They are considered first-line treatments for the disorder due to years of research that has demonstrated high response rates as well as a high degree of tolerability and security throughout life and a low risk of adverse effects. They are not habit-forming and there is very little evidence to suggest they could cause a substance abuse disorder. However, if they are used in higher-than-prescribed amounts, or by people who don't have ADHD, they can lead to serious side effects and even cause brain changes.
The drugs are available in a variety of types or formulations. Methylphenidate pills are the most frequently prescribed stimulant used to treat ADHD as amphetamines as well as atomoxetine are available.
Some long-acting versions can last for up to 16 hours and could reduce the need for a daily afternoon dose. They also can help prevent the rapid increase in blood pressure and heart rate that can be experienced when taking stimulants with shorter durations of action. adhd treatment medication who use these medications might experience what's known as a "crash" effect when they stop taking the medication which usually results in a sharp decrease in energy and is difficult to deal with.
Taking these medications can cause other side effects, including nausea suppression, stomach upset and sleep issues dry mouth, and mood changes. In rare instances stimulants can cause tics to worsen. For example certain adolescents and children who are taking ADHD medicine have increased eye blinking or throat clearing. These symptoms are usually minor, and they disappear once the body is accustomed to the medication. In rare instances, ADHD medications can delay growth in young people and result in them being shorter than their peers.
Non-stimulant medications are more difficult to use, but they do not cause the same bursts in energy. They also can increase focus, attention, and control of impulses over time. They're not controlled substances, therefore they are less likely to be misused or cause addiction disorders. However, some people can have a "crash" or rebound effect when they suddenly stop taking these medications.
Due to the complexity of ADHD, healthcare providers prescribe multiple medications and keep track of the body's reactions to ensure that patients are receiving the right dosage. This is particularly true if the healthcare provider is treating a comorbid condition such as anxiety or depression. For this reason, it's crucial for anyone suffering from ADHD to visit an psychiatric specialist on a regular basis until they have found the correct combination of medication and dosage. If adhd treatment medication in search of a psychiatrist who will assess your mental health and assist you in deciding whether to consider adding ADHD medications, Talkiatry is an online psychiatry practice that can match you with a specialist within a matter of days.