ADHD Treatment Medication
Adults with ADHD are usually treated by psychosocial therapy and medication. The drugs used to treat ADHD may include stimulants as well as nonstimulants.
Stimulants, like lisdexamfetamine and methylphenidate, work on chemical messengers in the brain to boost mood, concentration and control of impulses. Atomoxetine and Guanfacine are both non-stimulant ADHD medications that can be offered to adults, teenagers or children if they don't respond to stimulants.
Stimulants
The most popular medications used to treat ADHD are stimulants. They increase the amount of chemicals (neurotransmitters) in the brain, such as dopamine and norepinephrine. They aid people in paying attention and control their behavior. It has been shown that they can help ease ADHD symptoms for 70 - 80% adults and children. This includes reducing hyperactivity, interrupting and fidgeting, helping to finish tasks and enhancing relationships. They have also been shown to improve academic performance and reduce absences.
These drugs are usually taken orally. They come in two types: immediate-release (short-acting) and extended-release. The long-acting version builds up slowly in the bloodstream, and is able to wear off more slowly than the shorter-acting dosage. This helps avoid what is known as the "crash effect" that can occur when the medication is worn off and triggers symptoms that come back, like low energy, moodiness and feelings of hunger.
The most commonly used stimulant for adolescents and children is methylphenidate. It is available as chewable pills, oral patches and tablets that can be taken in a swallow. There are also the amphetamines Adderall and Dexedrine which are more potent and last longer than methylphenidate. Atomoxetine can be prescribed to adults and children over 5 years old if other medications are not working or cause unwanted side effects.
Amphetamines can be harmful to the heart, so they might not be suitable for those with heart issues. medication for adhd can be abused which can lead to addiction.
There are also nonstimulant drugs for ADHD however, they take longer to begin working and do not have the same effect as stimulants. They are typically used in conjunction with behavioral therapy which is often called multimodal treatment.
Certain studies have demonstrated that the combination of therapy and medication can improve the way that people with ADHD perform in their daily lives whether at work, school or home. The use of medication alone isn't enough to manage the disorder, and many people with ADHD continue to struggle despite taking medication.
In these situations it is crucial to talk to your doctor about what other options are available. In certain cases, these treatments include psychoeducation, which helps children, teenagers and adults make sense of their diagnosis of ADHD and teach them strategies to cope with it. This is often coupled with behavioural therapy as well as skills training, which can improve the way people suffering from ADHD perform at school and in the workplace.
While some ADHD medications may cause adverse effects, they tend to be minor and last only a short time. The majority of these disappear as the body gets used to the medication, and if they continue to occur the doctor may be able to alter the dosage or type of medication. Inform your doctor if or your child notice any changes in mood or appetite, or if they have difficulty sleeping or stomach upsets. This information can help your doctor determine the best medication for you or your child. This is essential, especially if you have other health conditions which may affect the medication or increase the risk of adverse side effects.