Medications and Therapy For ADHD
Combining therapy and medication can help to manage ADHD. The medication treats the brain while therapy helps patients cope and improve their skills.
Stimulants like methylphenidate or Lisdexamfetamine boost the levels of two chemicals that transmit messages between cells within the brain. This increases attention and impulse control. The stimulants can trigger negative side effects like loss of appetite, trouble sleeping, and an increase in heart rate and blood pressure.
Stimulants
The stimulants medications are often the first treatment tried for ADHD. They increase levels of dopamine and norepinephrine which help the brain function normally. concerta adhd medication improve focus and reduce hyperactivity as well as fidgeting. They can also help people get organized, complete tasks and enhance relationships. But the effects won't last all day, and they can have serious side effects. These medications can trigger personality changes in certain people, especially those with a past history of bipolar disorder or depression. They may be withdrawn, listless or rigid, less active and talkative, or develop obsessive-compulsive symptoms. over the counter adhd medication can also raise blood pressure and heart rate. People who have a heart condition are at a higher risk of these side effects and should be closely monitored by a physician when taking stimulants.
Stimulants are available in short- and long-acting doses. The stimulants that reach their peak within a few hours have to be taken twice a day. Long-acting drugs or those with extended release work for between 8 and 12 hours and can only be taken twice a week. Both kinds can have negative effects on appetite, growth, and sleep, so it's important to consult with your doctor about how the medication may affect you or your child prior to beginning it.
Be patient. It may take some time to find the best medication and dosage for someone who has ADHD. Your doctor will test different medications in small doses to determine which ones control the symptoms best and have the least negative side consequences. They may need to adjust the dose as well according to how you or your child responds.
The negative effects of ADHD medication can be severe or a nuisance However, they tend to go away within several weeks or days as your body becomes used to the medication. Side effects of ADHD medicine include stomach upset, loss of appetite as well as increased blood pressure, heart rate and tics. Children and adolescents who take stimulants may suffer from a slower growth and some slight delays in their height.
Symptoms can return if the medication is discontinued and it's crucial to talk to your doctor whether it's appropriate for you or your child to continue taking the medication. It is also important to check in with your doctor regularly to ensure the medication is working and that there aren't any issues or side effects.
Non-stimulant medicines for ADHD require more time to perform than stimulants, however they can improve concentration and decrease impulsivity and hyperactivity. They do not have the same risk for abuse or addiction as stimulants, but they do increase levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain, and therefore there is a risk of misuse or dependency.
Some states have laws that require doctors to monitor patients taking certain medications, which includes ADHD medicines. These laws require doctors to meet with you or your child on a regular basis whether in person or via phone, to ensure that the medications are effective and safe and to evaluate how the person is doing. In addition, to monitoring the effectiveness of your or your child's ADHD medication, they can also be looking for other signs and symptoms of problems, including depression, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts.