Medications and Therapy For ADHD
A combination of medication and therapy can help manage ADHD symptoms. Medicines treat the brain and therapy helps people develop skills and cope.
Stimulants, like lisdexamfetamine and methylphenidate, increase levels of two chemical substances in the brain, which transmit messages between cells. This improves the ability to focus and control impulses. Stimulants can cause adverse effects, such as loss of appetite, trouble sleeping, and an increased heart rate and blood pressure.
Stimulants
Stimulants are typically the first medication used to treat ADHD. They increase levels of norepinephrine and dopamine which help the brain function normally. These medications help improve concentration and decrease hyperactivity and fidgeting. They can also help people organize their lives, complete tasks, and improve relationships. But inattentive adhd medication won't last for long, and they can have serious adverse effects. Certain people, particularly those with an underlying bipolar disorder or depression, might experience personality changes when taking these medications. They may be more introverted or rigid more withdrawn, less sociable and spontaneous or show signs of obsessive compulsive disorders. They may also increase blood pressure and heart rate. These side effects are more likely to happen in people with heart issues. They must be monitored closely by their doctor when taking stimulants.
Short-acting stimulants can be found in two dosages. The stimulants that peak in a few hours must be taken two times a day. Long-acting drugs or those with extended release work for 8 to 12 hours and should only be taken once a week. Both can have adverse effects on appetite, growth, and sleep, so it's important to consult with your doctor about how the medication could affect you or your child prior to starting it.
Be patient. It can take some time to find the right medication and dosage for a person with ADHD. Your doctor will test various medications in small doses to see which ones control the symptoms the best and cause the fewest negative side effects. They may have to adjust the dosage, depending on how you or your child reacts.
Side effects of ADHD medication can be uncomfortable or even serious, but they tend to will disappear after a few weeks as your body adjusts to the medicine. Common side effects include stomach upset, a decrease in appetite, increased blood pressure and heart rate and tics (sudden, repetitive motions or sounds that sound like eye blinking or clearing of the throat). Certain teenagers and children who are taking stimulants may have a slower growth rate or a slight delay of their final height.
If you stop taking the medicine and experience symptoms, they could be recurred. It's crucial to discuss with your doctor whether it's best for your child or yourself to continue. You should also follow up with your doctor regularly to ensure the medication is working, and that there aren't any issues or side effects.
Non-stimulant drugs for ADHD take longer to work than stimulants, but they can improve concentration and decrease impulsivity and hyperactivity. Although they don't carry as much of a risk for abuse or dependence as stimulants do, they increase levels of dopamine as well as norepinephrine levels in the brain.
Certain states have laws that require doctors to monitor patients who are taking certain medications, including ADHD medications. The law requires them to meet with you or your child regularly whether in person or by phone, to make sure that the medication is effective and safe, and to determine how the patient is doing. In addition to assessing the effectiveness of your or your child's ADHD medication, they may also be looking for other indicators and signs of problems such as depression, anxiety or suicidal thoughts.