ADHD Medications
The use of medication is an integral element of treatment for ADHD. They aren't able to cure the condition however, they can assist in controlling symptoms and enhance a person's ability to function.
Stimulants are the most commonly used medications for ADHD. They help by enhancing the activity of the brain in areas that control behavior, attention and other functions.
Medication can cause side-effects such as nausea, increased heart rate or blood pressure and the tics. These side effects are typically mild to moderate.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most commonly prescribed medications for treating ADHD. These are medicines that increase the brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine which aid in focusing and decrease impulse-driven behavior. A few short-term side effects could include loss of appetite and heart rate, as well as bloodpressure. These medications can quickly improve the symptoms of ADHD however they do not solve it. Your doctor will recommend the appropriate medication for your child or yourself based on the results of your ADHD assessment as well as your tolerance to the medicine's adverse effects.
There are two major types of stimulant medications amphetamines and methylphenidates. The methylphenidate class includes Adderall and Ritalin. There are short-acting variants of these medications that you can take when you need to, and longer-lasting versions such as Adderall XR and Vyvanse that are taken daily.
These medications are effective and are often prescribed to treat ADHD. However, they can be misused or abused, and can become addictive. People who do not suffer from ADHD sometimes use them to be more alert and lose weight, or give themselves the sensation of a "buzz" or "high." People with ADHD who use these medications properly under the guidance and supervision of their doctor don't become dependent on them.
Stimulant medicines can cause diverse side effects, and choosing the right one for you or your child requires time. It is essential to inform your doctor about any adverse reactions you may experience. Your doctor will alter the dosage of your medication and will determine what's best for you.
A decrease in appetite, trouble sleeping, and an increased blood pressure or heart rate are all common side effects of stimulant medications used to treat ADHD. adhd medication uk can also cause irritability, nervousness, and anxiety, particularly at higher doses. These side effects are typically experienced in the first few weeks or days of taking the medication, and will disappear as your body becomes accustomed to it.
Your doctor will need to examine your other health conditions before prescribing a medicine. If you have a history or heart disease, your doctor may not prescribe stimulants. This is also true for those suffering from anxiety or depression. In these instances your doctor may prescribe a nonstimulant medication or a stimulant in combination with a calming drug such as Strattera(atomoxetine) to enhance the efficacy of both.
Nonstimulant medications for ADHD take a little longer to begin working, but they are less likely to be misused or abused as stimulants. They are often prescribed when stimulants fail to work or have unpleasant side effects.
ADHD medications are not available as over-the-counter medications like other medications. Minerals or vitamins claimed to treat ADHD are not backed by any scientific backing and may interact with prescription drugs. Your doctor may recommend specific dietary changes to help manage ADHD symptoms, and reduce the need for medication. Your doctor might also suggest behavior therapy and skills training to increase your ability to control the impulses that cause anxiety and to organize your life. Combining treatment is often the most effective method.