Medications and Therapy For ADHD
A combination of therapy and medication can help control ADHD symptoms. The brain is treated with medication, while therapy helps people develop techniques and manage.
Stimulants like methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine, increase levels of two chemicals in the brain that pass messages between cells. This increases the ability to focus, impulse control and motivation. The stimulants can cause adverse effects, including difficulty sleeping, weight loss, and increased heart rate and bloodpressure.
Stimulants
Stimulants are typically the first medication used to treat ADHD. They increase levels of norepinephrine and dopamine, which help the brain function normally. These drugs enhance focus and reduce hyperactivity, interruptions and fidgeting. They can also help people organize their lives, complete tasks, and improve relationships. The effects aren't long-lasting and may cause serious side effects. These medications can cause personality changes in some people, particularly those with a history of bipolar disorder or depression. They might become more withdrawn or rigid, less talkative and spontaneous or show signs of obsessive compulsive disorders. They may also raise blood pressure and heartbeat. These side effects are more likely to occur in people with heart issues. They should be closely monitored by their physician while taking stimulants.
Stimulants come in short- and long-acting dosages. The ones that are peaking after a few hours should be taken at least three times per day in order to achieve their maximum effect. Long-acting or extended-release drugs work for 8-12 hours and are taken just once daily. Both kinds can have negative side effects, including on sleep, appetite and growth. Talk to your doctor before taking either type about possible side effects.
Be patient. It can take some time to determine the most effective dosage and medication for a person with ADHD. Your doctor will try different medications in small doses to see which ones manage the symptoms best and have the least negative side consequences. They may need to adjust the dosage dependent on how you or your child responds.
The adverse effects of ADHD medication can be severe or a nuisance, but they usually disappear after several weeks or days as your body gets familiar with the medication. visit here of ADHD medications include stomach upset, a loss of appetite as well as increased blood pressure, heart rate and tics. Children and teens who are taking stimulants may have a slower growth rate or a slight delay of their final height.
If you stop taking the medicine, symptoms can return. It is important to discuss with your doctor whether it's better for your child or yourself to continue. It is also important to check with your doctor to ensure that the medication is working as planned and there aren't any side negative effects or issues.
Non-stimulant medications for ADHD require more time to perform than stimulants, however they can boost attention and reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. While they don't have the same potential for dependence or abuse as stimulants do, they do increase the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain.
Some states have laws that require doctors to observe patients taking certain medications. This includes ADHD medications. These laws require them to visit you or your child regularly, either in person or by phone, to ensure that the medications are effective and safe, and to assess how the person is doing. They are also able to monitor the effectiveness of your child's ADHD medications and examine other symptoms like depression, anxiety, or suicidal thought.