ADHD Medication - Is it Right For Your Child?
ADHD medication can make a huge difference for the majority kids. It's not for all children. Parents should consider the pros and cons.
Stimulants are the most commonly prescribed drugs prescribed by doctors to treat ADHD. They can reduce the frequency of interruptions, hyperactivity fidgeting, agitation and other symptoms. However, they can also trigger adverse effects such as jitteriness, stomachaches, headaches, and high blood pressure.
Stimulants
Stimulants are substances that increase the activity of the central and peripheral nervous system. adhd medication list improve the transmission of signals in the brain which allows people to focus better and increase their ability to learn. They also improve productivity, alertness, and the level of arousal, as well as reduce appetite. However, they can trigger side effects including irregular heartbeats and high blood pressure. The use of stimulants can treat a variety of ailments but they are often prescribed for ADHD. People suffering from ADHD may have issues at school, work as well as in their relationships. They tend to be emotional and have difficulty making plans. Their mood can also influence their behavior, like when they are angry or irritable.
The use of medication can help those with ADHD improve their ability to plan and stay on track with tasks, and manage their impulsive behavior. But it is not an effective treatment for the condition. Many sufferers find that their symptoms persist even when taking medication. Certain people also have other issues that cause their symptoms, including anxiety, depression, or drug addiction. These issues could require additional therapies to resolve the symptoms of ADHD.
The medications used to treat ADHD can have different names, but they all have the same active ingredient, the methylphenidate. Methylphenidate is a fast-acting drug because it is released into the system within a short period of time. It also has an immediate effect on mood. It is also known as Ritalin. However the same medication can be purchased under the brand name Ritalin LA. This medication is released over a longer time and may have a lasting effect.
Due to the possibility of the abuse of stimulants, they are tightly controlled and only prescribed by a paediatrician or psychiatrist (and sometimes, GPs in certain circumstances). They are usually only recommended as a last resort, after all other treatment options have been exhausted.
There is evidence to suggest that physical activity can reduce the symptoms of ADHD by increasing levels of natural brain chemicals like dopamine, norepinephrine, as well as serotonin. It is also essential to get enough rest. Encourage your child or yourself to go to sleep at a regular time and to stick to a routine, especially during meal times. Drinking less caffeinated beverages can help.
Amphetamines
Amphetamines activate receptors in the brain, increasing the activity of neurotransmitters such as norepinephrine or dopamine. They are involved in cognitive functioning as well as motivation, movement and. They are utilized to treat a wide variety of illnesses however, they are currently mostly prescribed for ADHD and narcolepsy, as well as obesity. They can also be used as a recreational drug to boost athletic performance and to increase feelings of euphoria and energy.
These drugs come in many varieties, from tablets to extended-release capsules. The dosage is typically adjusted according to the weight and age of the patient, as well as medical background and the effects of the drug on the patient. They can be used by children and adults. They are often combined with other medications to minimize adverse effects or to help people get through the day.
Stimulants are typically the first method of treatment for ADHD and are generally effective for most patients. It may take some time to determine the appropriate dose since every person reacts differently to the medication. Your doctor will be monitoring the body reactions of you or your child until they determine the appropriate dose. They will continue to monitor it over time to ensure that it is functioning properly.
Many experts believe that a combination of behavioral therapy and medication is the most effective treatment for ADHD. Some psychiatrists argue that stimulants can have serious side effects such as addiction and cardiovascular problems and psychiatric disorders such as bipolar disorder. Some people have also reported symptoms of tics or Tourette syndrome when taking stimulants.
A new study, referred to as a network meta-analysis, looked at all the evidence available about the efficacy and safety of various drugs for ADHD in adults, from methylphenidate to dextroamphetamine and atomoxetine. Researchers were able to compare the results of individual studies, even if they hadn't been directly tested against each other. The previous meta-analyses only looked at specific groups of patients, or a single drug.
The study found that lisdexamfetamine and methylphenidate were more effective than other drugs in decreasing ADHD symptoms. The study suggested that these two drugs be tested first, and then switched to dexamfetamine standard if they do not work. The other two drugs you should look into are atomoxetine or guanfacine.
Antidepressants
Many people who suffer from ADHD may also be suffering from depression or anxiety, and some ADHD medication side effects appear like the symptoms of other mental health conditions. Talk to your doctor in the event that you notice signs of anxiety or depression in your child or an adult who is taking ADHD medication. It may be necessary to modify the medication or add another medication to your treatment plan.
Stimulants used for ADHD aren't usually prescribed by themselves for depression however, they can be beneficial to those suffering from the combination of depression and ADHD. They can reduce symptoms of depression like fatigue and difficulty working, and help control ADHD symptoms like hyperactivity and the tendency to be impulsive.
Antidepressants aren't typically used to treat ADHD however, they may be helpful if stimulants don't work or have unacceptable side effects. Antidepressants are most commonly SSRIs, or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. However, tricyclic antidepressants such as imipramine or nortriptyline are sometimes prescribed to treat ADHD. The typical antidepressant bupropion (Wellbutrin Zyban, wellbutrin) is also commonly used for ADHD in adults and has been proven to reduce the impulsivity and inattention.
Non-stimulant ADHD medications are also available and typically have a lower chance of abuse, but they may cause problems with insomnia or agitation in some people. Other side effects can include stomach upset and headaches. Doctors may prescribe long-acting or extended-release versions of these medications that last between six to 16 hours and can lessen the ups and downs of drug levels within the body. Many people take a morning dose of an extended-release, long-acting medication and then take an immediate-release dosage in the late afternoon to cover the times when the first medication begins to fade.
Therapy can be a complement to medications for ADHD by helping people learn new strategies for coping and helping to break bad habits. BetterHelp is a service that connects users with licensed, accredited therapists who specialize in ADHD depression, anxiety and ADHD. You can complete the assessment in a matter of minutes and then be matched with a therapist within 48 hours.
Other medications
Non-stimulant medicines are often used to manage ADHD symptoms. These include atomoxetine (brand name Strattera) and viloxazine (brand name Qelbree). These are antidepressants that are believed to work by increasing the levels of norepinephrine. This aids the brain's nerves transmit messages to each other which improves concentration and reduces impulsiveness. They are less likely to suffer negative effects such as insomnia or appetite suppression in comparison to stimulant drugs.
Stimulant medication can cause unpleasant side effects, such as an upset stomach or changes in heartbeat or blood pressure. They may also cause tics (spontaneous repetition of movements or vocal sounds) more noticeable and bothersome. The stimulant medications can also slow growth and lead to weight loss in certain children. These effects are usually temporary and your doctor will prescribe a dose that is suitable for your child or you.
You won't see any significant improvement in your child's ADHD symptoms until you have been taking the medication for a minimum of three to four weeks. The doctor will closely monitor your child or yourself and adjust the dosage as needed. The problem won't be solved by medication alone, so you should discuss behavioral therapy with your child's physician.
Methylphenidate, the most commonly prescribed stimulant medication for ADHD, is not the only choice. Adderall, Ritalin and other short-acting methylphenidate medicines release the medication quickly into your system. They must be taken multiple times per throughout the day. Long-acting methylphenidate medicines like Evekeo and Ritalin SR release the medication slowly throughout the day. They are available as liquids tablets that can be swallowed or crushed, and tablets that are quick-dissolve (Evekeo ODt) that dissolve immediately in the mouth. The two methylphenidate types are similar to amphetamines, but, are generally considered safer than amphetamines in young people. They are less likely to cause addiction and heart issues. Amphetamines can last up to 16 hours and are more powerful than methylphenidate. However they are more likely to cause heart problems.