Medication For ADHD Explained In Less Than 140 Characters

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Medication For ADHD - What Are the Side Effects?

Many people with ADHD have a decrease in symptoms when they take medication. Every person's reaction to medication is different, and the side effects can be a problem.

Methylphenidate is a stimulant. It works by increasing levels of a chemical in the brain that helps control the attention span and behavior.

Stimulant medication

Stimulant medication improves concentration and attention for 70 to 80% of children and adults that take it. They work by altering neurotransmitters like norepinephrine or dopamine in the brain. Typically, they trigger an initial increase in blood pressure and heart rate that lasts for several hours. Because of this, many experts recommend that people start low and build up to the appropriate dose over the course of weeks.

Stimant medications are taken orally, usually once or twice daily. Most are available in both short- and long-acting formulas. Short-acting stimulating drugs peak in a few hours, and should be taken two times a day. Long-acting stimulating drugs last for 8 to 12 hours and are taken only once a week.

These drugs can trigger unwanted side effects, such as nausea, insomnia and loss of appetite. They may also make some people moody or angry however these effects typically fade with time and are usually managed by altering the dosage. In some cases stimulants can change your personality. You might become more withdrawn non stimulant adhd medication or irritable, or even more focused and rigid. They can also increase the risk of developing other mental disorders, such as mania and depression.

The majority of stimulants are controlled substances and require a prescription. They are frequently used by adults and adolescents for the purpose of performance enhancement, and they can result in addiction if used in a way that is not prescribed. Due to these risks, doctors carefully evaluate the need for stimulant medication and keep track of the dosage and adverse effects.

Non-stimulant drugs

There are many non-stimulant ADHD treatments that are available, and the one that is most effective is determined by the individual. These prescription drugs don't affect the same brain chemicals as stimulants do. Non-stimulants are less likely to have negative side effects, but they can take longer to effect and only last for 24 hours. Most of these drugs operate by increasing the amount of norepinephrine in the brain. This includes antidepressants like bupropion (Wellbutrin), nortriptyline, and Pamelor.

Psychotherapy

Talk therapy can help the patient how to deal with symptoms, and develop new coping techniques such as controlling impulsivity or stress. BetterHelp is a company that provides online therapy connects people with licensed therapists trained in treating ADHD and other mental conditions. You can find a therapist within 48 hours after completing a free online assessment. The use of stimulants or non-stimulants can help those with ADHD reduce their impulsivity and increase their ability to concentrate, but they do not solve the root cause. Cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness can be utilized in conjunction with therapy to help people learn how to manage their impulsive behavior. These techniques can be taught by an ADHD coach or practiced by a trained therapist. Parents and caregivers can be taught these techniques to assist their child or adult who suffers from ADHD. In some instances it is recommended to combine medication and talk therapy is the best approach.