ADHD Medications - Add ADHD Stimulants to Your Treatments
Stimulants boost brain chemicals that control behaviour. Doctors often prescribe them to treat ADHD symptoms. They may also include them in treatment for 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 following their medical advice.
Stimulants
The most commonly used medication by healthcare providers to treat ADHD in adults and children is stimulants. They are used to increase the levels of neurotransmitters (chemicals) in the brain, such as dopamine or norepinephrine. This helps people focus more effectively and decreases impulse-driven behavior. Approximately 80% of people with ADHD who take the right dosage experience less symptoms.
The majority of stimulants belong to the methylphenidate or amphetamine class of drugs and are FDA approved to treat ADHD. adhd uk medication are considered first-line treatments for the disorder because of decades of research that has shown high response rates, good tolerability and safety throughout the life span and a low risk of adverse reactions. They are also not habit-forming and there isn't any evidence to suggest they cause 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.
The drugs are available in a variety of forms, or formulations. Methylphenidate pills are the most commonly prescribed stimulant to treat ADHD as amphetamines and atomoxetine are also available.
Some long-acting versions of these medications last for up to 16 hours, and can reduce the need for a daily afternoon or evening dose. They can also help avoid the rapid changes in blood pressure and heart rate that can occur when taking shorter-acting stimulants. Some people who are taking these medications may have a "crash effect" when they stop taking them. This is typically characterized by a sudden and abrupt drop in energy.
adhd medications of these drugs can trigger other side effects, including an upset stomach, a decrease in appetite sleep issues, dry mouth and some mood changes. In rare instances, stimulants may worsen tics. For instance certain adolescents and children taking ADHD medication have increased eye blinking or throat clearing. These symptoms are usually mild and disappear after the body is accustomed to the medication. In rare cases ADHD medications can cause children to grow slower and be shorter than their peers.
Non-stimulant medications take longer to work but they don't produce the same surges of energy. They can also enhance focus, attention and control of impulses over time. Since they're not controlled substances they are less likely be misused or lead to addiction disorders. However, some individuals might experience a "crash", or rebound effect, if they suddenly stop taking them.
Due to the complexity of ADHD healthcare professionals prescribe multiple medications and keep track of the body's responses to ensure that patients are receiving the right dosage. This is particularly true in the case of treating a co-occurring condition such as depression or anxiety. For this reason, it's important for a person with ADHD to see regularly with a psychiatrist on an ongoing basis until they find the correct combination of medication and dosage. If you're looking for a psychiatrist who can evaluate your mental health and help you decide if it's time to consider adding ADHD medications, Talkiatry is an online psychiatry practice that will connect you with a doctor within days.