ADHD Treatment Medication
Treatment for ADHD for adults usually involves medication and psychosocial therapy. Medications used to treat ADHD include stimulants and nonstimulant medications.
Stimulants like methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine act on brain chemical messengers to improve concentration, mood and control of impulses. adhd medication for adults uk and guanfacine, both of which are nonstimulant ADHD medications, can be prescribed to teens, adults or children who do not respond to stimulants.
Stimulants
The most commonly used medications to treat ADHD are stimulants. They increase levels of chemicals (neurotransmitters) in the brain known as dopamine and norepinephrine. They help people pay attention and control their behaviour. They have been proven to ease ADHD symptoms in 70 to the majority of adults and children. This includes cutting down on fidgeting, hyperactivity, and interruptions aiding in the completion of tasks and improve relationships. In addition they have been proven to decrease absenteeism and enhance academic performance.
The majority of these drugs are taken orally. There are two kinds of these drugs: immediate-release (short acting) and extended-release. The longer-acting type builds up slowly in the bloodstream, and is able to wear off more slowly than the short-acting dosage. This can help avoid the "crash" effect, which occurs when a medication wears off and causes symptoms to return such as low mood feelings of hunger, and low energy.
Methylphenidate is the most popular stimulant used by teens and children. It is available in chewable pills, oral patches and tablets that can be swallowed. Adderall and Dexedrine are amphetamines that are stronger and last longer than methylphenidate. There is also atomoxetine which is a prescription for adults and children older than five years old, if other medications do not work or cause unwanted effects.
Amphetamines can be harmful to the heart, and therefore may not be as suitable for those suffering from heart issues. They can also be used to abuse and cause addiction.
Nonstimulant ADHD medications are available, but they take longer to work and don't have the same effects. Nonstimulants are generally used along with the behavioral therapy method and are often described as multimodal therapy.
Some studies have shown the combination of medications and behavioral therapy can improve the way people suffering from ADHD manage their daily lives at school, work or home. A single medication isn't enough to treat the condition, and a lot of people suffering from ADHD continue to struggle even though they are taking medication.
In these cases you should talk to your doctor what other treatment options are available. In some cases the treatments are psychoeducation, which helps adolescents, children and adults make sense of their diagnosis of ADHD and provide strategies to deal with it. This is often combined with behavioural therapy and skill training to enhance the performance of those suffering from ADHD at work and school.
Some ADHD medication can produce side effects, but they are usually only temporary and last for a short time. Most side effects fade as the body becomes accustomed to the medication. If they continue to occur however, your doctor may be able to adjust the dosage or type. Tell your doctor if you or your child are experiencing any changes in appetite or mood or if they are having difficulty sleeping or experience stomach upsets. This information can aid your doctor in determining the most effective medication for you or your child. This is particularly crucial if you have other medical conditions that could affect the medication or increase your risk of adverse side adverse effects.