The Reasons ADHD Medications Is More Difficult Than You Think
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 include them in treatment for anxiety or depression.
Kids and teens who don't take their ADHD medications typically have more severe symptoms. It's important that they understand the importance of taking the advice of their doctor.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the most popular kind of medication that healthcare professionals use 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 and reduces impulsive behaviors. About 80% of ADHD sufferers who are taking the right dosage are less prone to 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 first-line treatment for ADHD because of the decades of research which have proven their effectiveness in response rates, tolerability, safety, and low adverse effects across the lifespan. They are non-habit forming and there is no evidence that they can cause an addiction 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.
adhd uk medication are available in a variety of types or formulations. Methylphenidate pills are the most commonly prescribed form of stimulant for treating ADHD as amphetamines and atomoxetine are also available.
Some long-acting versions of these medications last for up to 16 hours and may reduce the requirement for an evening or afternoon dose. They also can help prevent the rapid change in blood pressure and heart rate that may be experienced when taking stimulants with shorter durations of action. Some people who are taking these medications may suffer from an "crash effect" when they stop taking them. This is typically characterized by a sudden and sharp decrease in energy.
These medications can cause other adverse effects, such as an upset stomach, a decrease in appetite sleep issues, dry mouth and some mood swings. In rare instances stimulants can cause tics to get worse. Children and adolescents who are taking ADHD medication may experience increased eye blinking or throat clearing. These symptoms are usually minor, and they disappear once the body is accustomed to the medication. In rare cases ADHD medications can cause young people to slow down their growth and become shorter than their peers.
Non-stimulant drugs take longer to get started, but they don't cause the same sudden bursts of energy and can improve concentration, focus and control over time. Since they're not controlled substances they are less likely to be misused or lead to substance abuse disorders. However, some people might be affected by a "crash" or rebound effect, after they suddenly stop using the drugs.
Because ADHD is a complicated condition healthcare professionals typically prescribe multiple medications and track the body's reactions to ensure they are receiving the right amount. This is especially true in the case of a healthcare professional treating a comorbid illness such as depression or anxiety. It is crucial that someone suffering from ADHD consults with a psychiatrist on a regular basis until they find the right dosage and combination of medications. Talkiatry is an online psychiatry service that matches you with a specialist within a matter of days will help you locate an expert psychiatrist to assess your mental health. They can also help you decide whether you should take ADHD medication.