Medications and Therapy For ADHD
A combination of medication and therapy can help to manage ADHD symptoms. The medication treats the brain, while therapy helps people manage and improve their skills.
Stimulants like methylphenidate or Lisdexamfetamine boost the levels of two chemicals that transmit messages between cells of the brain. This can increase attention and impulse control. The stimulants can have adverse effects, such as an increase in appetite, trouble sleeping, and an increase in heart rate and blood pressure.
Stimulants
Medications called stimulants are often the first treatment for ADHD. They boost levels of norepinephrine and dopamine, which help the brain function normally. These medicines help improve focus and decrease hyperactivity, interruptions, and fidgeting. They can also assist people get organized, complete tasks and enhance relationships. The effects are not long-lasting and can have serious side-effects. Some people, especially those with an underlying depression or bipolar disorder, may experience changes in their personality when taking these medications. They may be introverted, unfocused or rigid, less sociable and talkative, or develop obsessive-compulsive symptoms. medication for adhd and anxiety can also raise blood pressure and heart rate. People with a heart condition are at a higher risk of these side effects and should be monitored by a physician while taking stimulants.
Short-acting stimulants can be found in two doses. The stimulants that reach their peak within a couple of hours should be taken two times a day. Long-acting drugs or those with extended release work for 8-12 hour and can only be taken once a week. Both kinds can have negative effects on appetite, sleep, and growth. Talk to your doctor prior to taking either of them about possible adverse effects.
It may take a while to find the right dosage and medication for someone with ADHD Be patient. Your doctor will test different medications in small doses to see which ones control the symptoms the best and cause the smallest amount of negative side effects. They may need to adjust the dose as well according to how your child or you reacts.
The adverse effects of ADHD medication can be a serious or bothersome, but they usually go away within a few weeks or days as your body gets familiar with the medication. Common side effects include stomach upset, appetite loss and a rise in heart rate and blood pressure and tics (sudden, repetitive movements or sounds like eye blinking or clearing of the throat). Some children and adolescents who take stimulants can experience a decrease in growth and a slight delay in their height.
If you stop taking the medicine, symptoms can come back. It's important that you discuss with your doctor whether it's best for you or your child to continue. It is also important to check with your physician to make sure that the medication is working as planned and there are no side effects or problems.
Non-stimulant ADHD medications take longer to work, but can improve attention as well as reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. Although they don't carry as much of a potential for dependence or abuse as stimulants do, they do increase the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain.
Certain states have laws that require doctors to observe patients who are taking certain medications. This includes ADHD medications. These laws require doctors to meet with you or your child regularly, either 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 your child's ADHD medication, they may also check for other signs and symptoms of problems such as depression, anxiety or suicidal ideas.