ADHD and Medication
The use of medication can help those with ADHD focus, control hyperactivity and impulsive behavior and complete tasks. They can also reduce anxiety and depression.
Stimulants are among the medications most often prescribed for children and teens with ADHD. Amphetamines, such as Adderall and Dexedrine, and methylphenidates, such as Ritalin and Focalin are among the most frequently prescribed stimulants. There's a possibility of addiction, which is why doctors monitor kids closely for problems.
Stimulants
The most commonly prescribed medication by doctors for ADHD is stimulants. adhd without medication are thought to improve the activity in areas of the brain responsible for attention and behavior. Methylphenidate is the most common medication used to treat ADHD and doctors may also prescribe amphetamines, or a newer treatment called quebrachine (brand name, Quelbree). These medicines are typically prescribed in formulations with a long-acting effect or with extended release, so that they increase in strength slowly and are released more slowly. This can minimize the chances of a sudden "reboundeffect" as the drug wears down.
Researchers believe that stimulants can help those suffering from ADHD by raising levels of a neurotransmitter known as dopamine in the brain. Dopamine aids in improving concentration and focus, and also to reduce hyperactivity and impulsiveness. Dopamine can also boost the activity of the neurons that transmit signals to the brain's nucleus acumbens which are involved in motivation, pleasure, and reward.
Research suggests that people with ADHD have lower levels of dopamine in the frontal cortex, an area of the brain that controls the "executive" functions such as organizing and planning. This can cause issues with time management and working through tasks, as well being a struggle in suppressing emotions and controlling impulses. Researchers have also found that stimulant drugs can enhance the frontal cortex function of people suffering from ADHD. This is accomplished by blocking dopamine and norepinephrine reuptake.
Some people with ADHD do not respond well to stimulant medication or are not tolerant to these medications. This could be due to the possibility of addiction or abuse, or intolerance of certain side effects such as jitteriness and insomnia. In these instances, alternative treatments may be suggested, including atypical antidepressants like Wellbutrin and tricyclic antidepressants. They are usually prescribed "off-label" for ADHD because they are thought to improve attention in some patients and have the lowest chance of addiction or misuse.
In adhd no medication can be provided, which aims to help adolescents, children and adults recognize the diagnosis and manage their symptoms. Therapists may employ behavioural therapy to help people modify their behaviors and habits.
There's plenty of debate over whether ADHD exists, and if so, what its causes are. Some people are urging stricter diagnostic criteria and an end to the use of stimulants to anyone who doesn't meet them, while others are recommending non-stimulant treatments which are equally efficient and have less adverse effects. There is also a growing movement to encourage more behavior modification, which is more effective than medications in the long term. This can include a variety of psychological techniques, such as cognitive behavior therapy and problem solving skills training. This can include parenting techniques that can reduce impulsiveness and distractions at home. Other types of behavior modification that focus on reward-based training and counseling for families, are also beneficial.