Medications and Therapy For ADHD
A combination of therapy and medication can help to manage ADHD symptoms. Medications treat the brain and therapy helps people learn skills and cope.
Stimulants such as methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine increase the levels of two chemicals that transmit messages between cells in the brain. This improves attention, impulse control and motivation. The stimulants can have adverse effects, including sleeplessness, weight loss and an increase in blood pressure and heart rate.
Stimulants
Stimulants are usually the first treatment for ADHD. They boost levels of dopamine and norepinephrine, which helps the brain function normally. These medications improve focus and reduce hyperactivity as well as fidgeting. They also improve interpersonal relationships, help people complete tasks and become organized. However, the effects don't last all day and can cause serious adverse effects. These medications can cause personality changes in some people, particularly those with a past history of bipolar disorder or depression. They might become more withdrawn or rigid and less talkative, or develop symptoms of obsessive compulsive disorder. They may also increase blood pressure and heart rate. These side effects are more likely to occur in people with heart conditions. They must be monitored closely by their physician while taking stimulants.
Short-acting stimulants can be found in two doses. The ones that are peaking after a few hours require taking every day for a minimum of 3 times, whereas long-acting or extended release drugs work for 8-12 hours and can be taken only once a day. Both types can have negative side effects on sleep, appetite, and growth. Talk to your doctor prior to taking either of them regarding the potential adverse effects.
It may take a while to determine the best dosage and medication for someone with ADHD Be patient. Your doctor will test a variety of medications in small doses to determine which one controls the symptoms the best and has the smallest amount of side-effects. They may have to alter the dose as well, depending on how you or your child responds.
The negative effects of ADHD medication can be a serious or bothersome However, they tend to disappear after several weeks or days as your body gets used to the medication. The adverse effects of ADHD medications include stomach upset, loss of appetite, increased blood pressure, heart rate and tics. Children and teens who take stimulants may experience a reduction in growth or a slight delay of their final height.
If medication for adhd and anxiety stop taking the medicine the symptoms could be recurred. It is important to discuss with your doctor if it's better for your child or yourself to continue. It is also important to check in with your doctor regularly to make sure the medication is working and there aren't any problems or side effects.
Non-stimulant drugs for ADHD take longer to work than stimulants, but they can boost attention and reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. Although they don't carry as much of a risk for dependence or abuse as stimulants do, they increase the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain.
Certain states have laws that require doctors to monitor patients who are taking certain medications, including ADHD medications. These laws require them to visit you or your child on a regular basis either in person or by phone, to ensure that the medication is effective and safe, and to evaluate how the patient is doing. In addition, to monitoring the effectiveness of your or your child's ADHD medication, they should also look for other indications and signs of issues, such as anxiety, depression or suicidal ideas.