Medications and Therapy For ADHD
A combination of therapy and medication can help control ADHD symptoms. The medication treats the brain while therapy helps patients cope and learn skills.
The stimulants like methylphenidate and Lisdexamfetamine can increase levels of two chemicals that transmit messages between cells in the brain. This can increase attention, impulse control and motivation. The stimulants can cause negative side effects, like insomnia, a loss of appetite and an increase in heart rate and bloodpressure.
Stimulants
Stimulants are usually the first drugs used to treat ADHD. They boost levels of dopamine and norepinephrine which aid the brain to function normally. These drugs improve focus and reduce hyperactivity, interrupting, and fidgeting. They also improve interpersonal relationships, aid in completing tasks and stay organized. The effects are not long-lasting and can cause serious side-effects. These medications can cause personality changes in some people, particularly those with a history of Bipolar disorder or depression. They may be more introverted or rigid more withdrawn, less sociable and spontaneous, or develop symptoms of obsessive compulsive disorders. adhd stimulant medication may also increase blood pressure and heartbeat. These adverse effects are more likely to occur in people with heart issues. They must be monitored closely by their physician while taking stimulants.
Stimulants come in short and long-acting dosages. The stimulants that peak within a couple of hours should be taken twice a day. Long-acting medications or those with extended release last for between 8 and 12 hours and can only be taken once a week. Both types can have negative effects on growth, appetite, and sleep, so it's vital to talk with your doctor about how the medication could affect you or your child prior to beginning it.
It may take a while to determine the appropriate medication and dosage for someone with ADHD, so be patient. Your doctor will test several medications in small doses to determine which one controls the symptoms best and has the least adverse effects. They may have to alter the dose as well dependent on how you or your child responds.
Side effects of ADHD medication can be uncomfortable or serious, but most will disappear after a few weeks as your body adjusts to the medicine. Common side effects include stomach upset, a decrease in appetite as well as an increase in blood pressure and heart rate, and tics (sudden, repetitive motions or sounds that sound like eye blinking or throat clearing). Some children and adolescents who take stimulants can see a slowing in growth and an increase in their final height.
The symptoms may recur after the medicine is stopped therefore it's essential to talk to your doctor if it's appropriate for you or your child to continue taking the medication. It is also important to check in with your doctor on a regular basis to ensure that the medication is working and there aren't any problems or adverse side effects.
Non-stimulant ADHD medications take longer to work however they can help improve attention as well as reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity. Although they don't carry the same potential for dependence or abuse as stimulants do, they increase levels of dopamine as well as norepinephrine within the brain.
Some states have laws that require doctors to keep track of patients taking certain medications, such as ADHD medications. These laws require that doctors meet with you or your child frequently in person, or via phone, in order to ensure that the medication is safe and effective and to monitor the patient's development. They can also assess the effectiveness of your child's ADHD medication and also look for other symptoms such a depression, anxiety or suicidal thoughts.