ADHD Medications - Add ADHD Stimulants to Your Treatments
Stimulants boost the levels of brain chemicals that control behavior. Doctors prescribe stimulants to treat ADHD symptoms. They may also be used to treat symptoms of anxiety or depression.
Children and teens who don't take their ADHD medication are often afflicted with more symptoms. It is crucial that they comprehend the importance of taking their doctors' advice.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most commonly used kind of medication that healthcare professionals employ to treat ADHD in adults and children. They are used to increase the levels of neurotransmitters (chemicals) in the brain, such as dopamine and norepinephrine. This allows people to focus more effectively and decreases impulsive behavior. Around 80% of ADHD sufferers who take the right dose have fewer ADHD symptoms.
Most stimulants are in the methylphenidate or amphetamine drug classes and are FDA approved to treat ADHD. The FDA has approved them as first-line treatments for ADHD because of the decades of research that have demonstrated high response rates, tolerability, safety and minimal adverse effects across the lifespan. They are also not habit-forming and there is no 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 are available in different types or formulations. The most common form of stimulant prescribed to treat ADHD is methylphenidate pills. Amphetamines, atomoxetine, and amphetamines are also available.
Certain long-acting versions of these medications last up to 16 hours and could decrease the need for a daily afternoon or evening dose. They can also help avoid the rapid changes in blood pressure and heart rate that could occur when taking stimulants that have a shorter acting. Certain people who are taking these medications may have what's known as a "crash" result when they stop taking the medication, which typically involves a very sharp decrease in energy and can be difficult to cope with.
These medications can cause additional side effects like stomach upset as well as appetite suppression and sleep problems. They can also cause dry mouth, mood changes, and sleep problems. In rare instances, stimulants can cause tics to worsen. For instance that some adolescents and children who take ADHD medicine have increased eye blinking or throat clearing. These symptoms are usually minor, and they disappear once the body has adjusted to the medication. In rare cases ADHD medication can cause young people to be slower growing and shorter than their peers.
Non-stimulant medicines take longer to start working however they don't trigger the same sudden bursts energy, and can help 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 may suffer an "crash" or rebound effect, when they suddenly stop using the drugs.
Due to the complexity of ADHD medical professionals prescribe multiple medications and monitor the body's reactions to ensure that a person is getting the correct dose. read the full info here is especially true when the healthcare professional is treating a comorbid disorder such as depression or anxiety. For this reason, it's essential for people suffering from ADHD to see regularly with a psychiatrist on an ongoing basis until they find the appropriate combination of medication and dosage. Talkiatry is an online psychiatry service that can match you with a provider within a matter of days will help you locate a psychiatrist who can assess your mental health. They can also help you decide whether you should take ADHD medication.