ADHD Medications - Add ADHD Stimulants to Your Treatments
Stimulants boost the levels of brain chemicals that regulate behavior. Doctors prescribe stimulants to treat ADHD symptoms. They can also be used in the treatment of depression or anxiety.
Children and teens who don't take their ADHD medication are often afflicted with more symptoms. That's why they need to understand the importance of following their doctors' instructions.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the most popular type of medication healthcare providers employ to treat ADHD in children and adults. They work by increasing levels of certain chemicals (neurotransmitters) in the brain, like dopamine and norepinephrine. This helps people focus better and lessens impulse-driven behavior. About 80% of ADHD sufferers who take the right dose experience fewer ADHD symptoms.
The majority of stimulants belong to the methylphenidate or amphetamine drug classes and are FDA approved to treat ADHD. The FDA has approved them as a first-line treatments for ADHD because of decades of research which have proven their effectiveness in response rates, tolerability and minimal adverse effects throughout the life span. They aren't habit-forming, and there is no 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 different 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 stimulants last for as long as 16 hours and could reduce the need for a daily dose of afternoon. They also can help prevent the rapid change in blood pressure and heart rate that could occur when taking stimulants that have a shorter acting. Certain people who are taking these medications may have what's known as a "crash" result when they stop the medication, which is typically a sharp decrease in energy and is difficult to deal with.
The use of these drugs can trigger additional side effects, including an upset stomach, a decrease in appetite, sleep problems, dry mouth and some mood changes. In rare cases, stimulants may worsen tics. Some adolescents and children who are taking ADHD medication may experience increased eye blinking, or throat clearing. They are usually minor and disappear once the body adjusts to the medication. In rare cases, ADHD medications can delay growth in children and make them shorter than their peers.
Non-stimulant medicines take longer to get started, but they don't cause the same sudden bursts energy and can improve concentration, focus and control over time. Since they aren't controlled substances, they are less likely to be misused or cause addiction disorders. However, some people might experience a "crash" or rebound effect, after they suddenly stop taking these medications.
Because ADHD can be a complex condition healthcare professionals typically prescribe a variety of medications and keep track of the body's reactions to ensure they are receiving the correct amount. This is especially important in the case of treating a comorbid illness such as anxiety or depression. It is crucial that anyone suffering from ADHD consults with a psychiatrist on a regular basis until they can find the ideal combination of medication and dosage. Talkiatry is an online psychiatry service that can match you with a specialist in a matter of days will help you locate a psychiatrist who can assess your mental health. non prescription adhd medication uk can also help you decide whether you should take ADHD medication.