Medications and Therapy For ADHD
Combining therapy and medication can help to manage ADHD. The medication treats the brain while therapy helps people cope and develop skills.
Stimulants like the methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine, boost levels of two chemicals in the brain that transmit messages between cells. This improves attention, impulse control and motivation. The stimulants can cause adverse effects, including sleeplessness, weight loss and a rise in blood pressure and heart rate.
Stimulants
Stimulants are typically the first medications used to treat ADHD. They increase levels of dopamine and norepinephrine, which helps the brain function normally. These medicines help improve focus and decrease hyperactivity, interruptions, and fidgeting. They can also assist people get organized, complete tasks, and improve relationships. The effects aren't long-lasting and can cause serious side-effects. These medications can cause personality changes in certain people, particularly those who have a history of depression or Bipolar disorder. They may be more introverted or rigid, less talkative and spontaneous or show signs of obsessive-compulsive disorder. They may also increase blood pressure and heart rate. These side effects are more likely to occur in those with heart conditions. They should be closely monitored by their physician while taking stimulants.
Short-acting stimulants are available in two different dosages. The ones that are peaking after a few hours require taking 2-3 times a day in order to achieve their maximum effect. Long-acting or extended-release medications last for between 8 and 12 hours and are taken only once a day. Both types can have adverse effects on growth, appetite, and sleep, so it's important to talk with your doctor about how the medication may affect your child or you prior to taking it.
adhd stimulant medication . It may take time to find the best dosage and medication for a person with ADHD. Your doctor will test various medications in small doses to see which ones control the symptoms the best and have the least side negative effects. They may have to adjust the dosage according to how you or your child reacts.
The negative effects of ADHD medication can be a serious or a nuisance, but they usually disappear after a few weeks or days after your body has become accustomed to the medicine. Side effects of ADHD medicine include stomach upset, a decrease in appetite, increased blood pressure, heart rate and tics. Children and teens who are taking stimulants may experience a reduction in growth or a slight delay in their height at the end of the day.
The symptoms may recur after the medicine is stopped, so it's important to discuss with your doctor whether it's right for you or your child to continue taking the medication. You should also check in with your physician to make sure that the medication is working as planned and there aren't any side effects or problems.
Non-stimulant medications for ADHD take longer to perform than stimulants, however they can improve attention and reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. Although adhd medication online don't carry the same potential for dependence or abuse as stimulants do, they increase the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine within the brain.
Some states have laws requiring doctors to monitor patients who are taking certain medications, including ADHD medicines. These laws require doctors to meet with you or your child on a regular basis, either in person or via phone, to ensure that the medication is effective and safe, and to determine the performance of the patient. In addition, to monitoring the effectiveness of your or your child's ADHD medication, they may also check for other indications and signs of issues, such as depression, anxiety or suicidal ideas.