ADHD Medication Side Effects
If your doctor prescribes ADHD medication for your child or you, you might experience adverse effects. It can take some experimenting to find the appropriate medication and dose for you.
Stimulants are the most commonly used drugs used to treat ADHD. They increase brain chemicals which influence attention and concentration.
Doctors also prescribe guanfacine (brand names Tenex and Intuniv) and clonidine (Catapres) to reduce anxiety and impulsive behavior among those suffering from ADHD. They can take a few weeks to work.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most common kind of medication that doctors use to treat ADHD. These medications increase the levels of brain chemicals like dopamine and norepinephrine which aid people in paying attention and concentrate their thoughts. These medications are also effective in reducing impulsivity, restlessness and aggression. They are strictly controlled, so only trained paediatricians and psychiatrists can prescribe them.
The most commonly used stimulants treating ADHD include amphetamines and methylphenidates. These drugs have been around for a long time and boost neurotransmitters in different ways. These drugs are available in various forms including immediate release capsules and extended-release tablets or capsules. buy adhd medication uk are taken orally and others are administered via injection. The majority of people choose the extended-release versions of these drugs, which last from morning until evening, and help people avoid the "crash" that is often experienced after they have stopped taking an inactive stimulant medication that is short-acting.
Nonstimulants
These medicines have less effect than stimulants, but can help people focus and manage their behavior. These medications are often prescribed by a doctor for adults and teens who don't get enough stimulation from stimulants, or to enhance the effects of stimulants on children. Some of these medications are antidepressants, while others are blood pressure drugs. They may take a couple of weeks to begin working and they do not work as effectively in isolation as stimulants do.
Behaviour therapy
Treatment options for ADHD patients typically consist of a combination of treatment with a behavioral therapist, such as individual cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or family-based therapy. Behavioural therapy is more efficient than medication alone. Teachers and parents can learn how to encourage positive behavior and discourage negative behaviour among children with ADHD through a family-based treatment programme. Individual CBT can help people with ADHD develop new thinking patterns and manage their problems more effectively.
Behavioural Therapy can be particularly helpful for infants and ADHD children. It helps them to develop the skills to improve their interactions with other children and deal with social difficulties. It can also help parents understand how to help their children's behavior and learning at home as well as at school.
Lifestyle changes
You can make dietary changes for example, abstaining from foods that are high in sugar and artificial colours or flavours. There is no evidence to suggest that such diets can help improve ADHD symptoms. It is crucial to seek medical advice before making any changes to your child's eating habits.
The side effects of medication
Every medicine has some side effects, but most will disappear once your body adjusts to the medicine. Some of the side effects are serious and you should consult your physician about them if you are concerned.
Psychoeducation is a program that assists children, teens and adults to better understand ADHD and how to live with it. It can be beneficial for parents and carers who struggle to deal with their own issues when dealing with children with ADHD.