Medications and Therapy For ADHD
A combination of therapy and medication can help to manage ADHD symptoms. The medication treats the brain, while therapy helps people cope and learn skills.
Stimulants like methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine increase the levels of two chemical substances that transmit messages between cells in the brain. This increases the ability to focus, impulse control and motivation. Stimulants can cause adverse effects, such as weight loss, difficulty sleeping, and an increase of heart rate and blood pressure.
Stimulants
Stimulants are usually the first medications used to treat ADHD. They increase levels of norepinephrine and dopamine, which help the brain function normally. These drugs improve focus and reduce hyperactivity as well as fidgeting. They can also improve relationships, aid in completing tasks and become organized. But the effects won't last all day and can cause serious side effects. These medications can trigger personality changes in certain people, especially those with a history of depression or Bipolar disorder. They may be more introverted or rigid more withdrawn, less sociable and spontaneous or exhibit signs of obsessive compulsive disorder. They may also increase blood pressure and heart rate. People who have a heart condition are at a higher risk of these adverse effects and should be monitored closely by a doctor while taking stimulants.
Stimulants come in short and long-acting dosages. The stimulants that peak within a couple of hours should be taken two times a day. Long-acting medications or ones with extended release function for 8 to 12 hours and should only be taken twice a week. Both types can have negative effects on appetite, growth and sleep, so it's vital to consult with your doctor about how the medication might affect your child or you prior to starting it.
Be patient. It may take some time to determine the most effective medication and dosage for someone who has ADHD. Your doctor will test several medications in small doses to determine which one manages the symptoms best and has the fewest side-effects. They may have to alter the dosage dependent on how your child or you responds.
The side effects of ADHD medicine can be a bit uncomfortable or even serious, but they tend to disappear after a few days or weeks as your body gets used to the medicine. The side effects of ADHD medication include stomach upset, a loss of appetite, increased blood pressure, heart rate and tics. Children and teens who take stimulants might suffer from a decrease in growth or a slight delay of their final height.
Symptoms can return if the medicine is stopped, so it's important to talk with your doctor whether it's right for you or your child to continue taking it. You should also check in with your doctor to confirm that the medication is working as it should and that there are no adverse negative effects or issues.
Non-stimulant medications for ADHD take longer to perform than stimulants, however they can improve attention and reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. just click the next web page don't have the same potential for addiction or abuse as stimulants, however they do increase the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain, which means there is a possibility of misuse or dependency.
Certain states have laws that require doctors to monitor patients who are taking certain medications, such as ADHD medications. These laws require doctors to meet with you or your child at regular intervals whether in person or over the phone, to make sure that the medication is effective and safe, and to determine the performance of the patient. They can also assess the effectiveness of your child's ADHD medication and look for other symptoms such a depression, anxiety or suicidal thought.