ADHD Medications - Add ADHD Stimulants to Your Treatments
The stimulants increase brain chemicals that control behaviour. Doctors often prescribe these medications to treat ADHD symptoms. They may also use them in treatments for anxiety or depression.
Children and teens who don't take their ADHD medication are often afflicted with more symptoms. It's important that they understand the importance of following the advice of their doctor.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the most popular type of medication healthcare providers employ to treat ADHD in children and adults. They are used to increase the levels of certain neurotransmitters (chemicals) in the brain such as dopamine and norepinephrine. This helps people focus better and lessens impulse-driven behavior. About 80% of those with ADHD who take the right dose experience fewer symptoms.
The stimulants that have been approved by the FDA include those from the amphetamine and methylphenidate class. They are considered first-line treatments for the disorder due to years of research that has demonstrated high response rates, good tolerability and safety across the lifespan and a low risk of adverse reactions. They are also non-habit-forming, and there is little evidence that they cause a substance use 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.
These drugs come in different forms, or formulations. Methylphenidate pills are the most commonly prescribed stimulant for treating ADHD amphetamines and atomoxetine are also available.
Certain long-acting versions of these medications last up to 16 hours, and can decrease the need for an afternoon or evening dose. They also can help prevent the rapid increase in blood pressure and heart rate that may be experienced when taking stimulants with shorter durations of action. Certain people who take these drugs may suffer from an "crash effect" when they stop taking them. It is characterized by a sudden and sharp drop in energy.
These medications can also cause additional side effects like upset stomach or appetite suppression, as well as sleep issues. They can also cause dry mouth, mood changes, and sleep problems. In adhd uk medication can cause tics to worsen. Children and adolescents who take ADHD medication have increased eye blinking or throat clearing. These symptoms are usually mild, and disappear after the body is accustomed to the medication. In rare instances, ADHD medications can delay growth in children and result in them being shorter than their peers.
Non-stimulant medications take longer to begin working but they don't produce the same sudden bursts energy and can boost concentration, attention and control over time. Since adhd uk medication controlled substances, they are less likely be misused or lead to addiction disorders. However, some individuals might suffer the "crash", or rebound effect, if they suddenly stop using these medications.
Due to the complexity of ADHD medical professionals prescribe multiple medications and track the body's reactions to ensure patients are receiving the right dosage. This is particularly true in the case of a healthcare professional treating a comorbid disorder such as anxiety or depression. It is important that someone suffering from ADHD consults with a psychiatrist on a regular basis until they discover the best dosage and combination of medications. Talkiatry, an online psychiatry service that can match you with a specialist in a matter of days, can help you find a psychiatrist who can assess your mental health. They can also help you decide if you should add ADHD medication.