Medications and Therapy For ADHD
Combining medication and therapy can help to manage ADHD. The medication treats the brain while therapy helps people cope and improve their skills.
The stimulants like methylphenidate and Lisdexamfetamine boost the levels of two chemicals that transmit messages between cells in the brain. This improves attention, impulse control and motivation. Stimulants can cause side effects such as an increase in appetite, trouble sleeping, and an increased heart rate and blood pressure.
Stimulants
Stimulants are usually the first treatment for ADHD. They boost levels of norepinephrine and dopamine which help the brain function normally. These medications improve focus and reduce hyperactivity, interruptions and fidgeting. They can also help people achieve their goals, stay organized and enhance relationships. The effects are not long-lasting and can have serious side effects. These drugs can cause personality changes in certain people, especially those with a history of bipolar disorder or depression. They might become more withdrawn or rigid, less talkative and spontaneous, or develop symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder. They may also increase blood pressure and heart rate. Patients with heart conditions are at a higher risk of these side effects, and should be monitored by a physician while taking stimulants.
Stimulants come in short and long-acting dosages. The stimulants that peak in a few hours must be taken twice a day. Long-acting drugs or ones with extended release function for 8 to 12 hours and should only be taken once per week. Both types can have negative effects, including on sleep, appetite, and growth. Talk to your doctor before taking either type about possible adverse effects.
Be patient. It may take time to find the best dosage and medication for someone who has ADHD. Your doctor will test several medications in small doses to determine which one is able to control the symptoms the most effectively and has the fewest adverse effects. They may also have to adjust the dosage depending on your or your child's response.
The negative effects of ADHD medication can be a serious or bothersome however, they typically go away within several weeks or days as your body becomes accustomed to the medicine. Side effects of ADHD medicine include stomach upset, a loss of appetite and increased blood pressure heart rate and tics. Some children and adolescents who are taking stimulants may see a slowing in growth and a slight delay in their final height.
Symptoms can return if the medicine is stopped, so it's important to talk with your doctor whether it's appropriate for you or your child to continue taking the medication. It is also important to check in with your doctor on a regular basis to ensure the medication is working, and that there aren't any problems or adverse side effects.
Non-stimulant drugs for ADHD take longer to perform than stimulants, however they can boost focus and reduce impulsivity as well as hyperactivity. While they don't have the same potential for dependence or abuse as stimulants do, they increase the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain.
Some states have laws that require doctors to observe patients taking certain medications. This includes ADHD medicines. These laws require doctors to visit you or your child regularly whether in person or over the phone, to ensure that the medications are safe and effective and to determine the performance of the patient. In on the main page , to monitoring the effectiveness of your or your child's ADHD medication, they can also check for other indications and signs of problems, including depression, anxiety or suicidal ideas.