The 10 Scariest Things About Medication For ADHD
Medication For ADHD – What Are the Side Effects? Many people suffering from ADHD experience a reduction in symptoms when taking medication. Every person's reaction is different, and side effects can be a problem. Methylphenidate is a stimulant. It works by increasing levels of a brain chemical that regulates behavior and attention. Stimulant medications Stimulant medication can improve attention and concentration for 70 to 80% children and adults who use it. They affect the activity of neurotransmitters that are essential in the brain, including dopamine and norepinephrine. They typically cause an initial increase in blood pressure and heart rate which lasts for a long time. Many experts recommend starting at a low dose and gradually increase the dosage over several weeks. Stimant medication is administered by mouth, usually once or twice a day. They are generally available in long- and short-acting formulas. Short-acting stimulants peak within a couple of hours, and should be taken two times a day. Long-acting stimulating drugs last 8-12 hours, and are taken only once a week. These medications can trigger unwanted adverse side effects like insomnia, loss of appetite and nausea. Some people might become irritable or moody. However, these effects usually disappear over time and are able to be controlled by adjusting the dosage. In some cases stimulants can alter your personality. You may become withdrawn, listless, or more rigid and obsessed. They can also increase the risk of other mental health problems, including depression and mania. adhd without medication Iam Psychiatry are controlled substances that require prescriptions to be obtained. They are often misused by adults and adolescents to achieve performance enhancement, and can lead to addiction if used improperly or not as prescribed. Because of these risks, doctors carefully evaluate the need for stimulant medication and keep track of the dosage and adverse effects. Non-stimulant drugs
There are a variety of non-stimulant ADHD medications available, and which one is best for you depends on your individual needs. These prescription drugs don't affect the same brain chemicals as stimulants do. Non-stimulants have fewer side effects but can take longer to act and last for only 24 hours. They are mostly effective by increasing the amount of norepinephrine that is present in the brain. They also include antidepressants such as bupropion (Wellbutrin) and nortriptyline (Aventyl and Pamelor). Psychotherapy Talk therapy can help a person learn how to manage symptoms and develop new coping skills, such as controlling impulsivity and stress. BetterHelp, an online therapy platform connects people with licensed therapists trained to treat ADHD and other mental health issues. Get a free assessment and be connected with a therapist in less than 48 hours. Stimulant and non-stimulant medication can help those with ADHD improve their ability to concentrate and decrease impulsivity, however they don't address some of the underlying causes of the disorder. In addition to talk therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness-based treatments can teach people techniques to control the impulsive behavior of their children and increase their ability to manage their emotions. These methods can be learned through an ADHD coach or by practicing them with a trained therapist. They can also be taught to caregivers and parents to help the child or adult suffering from ADHD in these areas. In certain cases the combination of medication and therapy could be the most effective approach.