Medication For ADHD The Process Isn't As Hard As You Think

Medication For ADHD - What Are the Side Effects?

Many people with ADHD have a decrease in symptoms when they use medication. However, each person reacts differently to different drugs and the adverse reactions can be problematic.

Methylphenidate is a stimulant. It works by increasing levels of a chemical in the brain that regulates the behavior and focus.

Stimulant Medication Given For Adhd

Stimulant medications improve attention and concentration in 70 to the 80% of children and adults who use them. They work by altering neurotransmitters such as norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. They usually cause an initial rise in blood pressure and heart rate, which lasts for several hours. Many experts recommend that you start low and gradually increase the dosage over a period of time.

Stimant medication is taken by mouth, usually every day, either once or twice. There are both short-acting and long-acting versions for most stimulants. Short-acting stimulants peak after a short time and should be taken 3 times a day. Long-acting stimulants last between 8 and 12 hours and are taken once a day.

These drugs can cause unwanted side effects such as insomnia, loss of appetite and nausea. Some people might become irritable or moody. However the effects typically diminish over time and can be controlled by changing the dosage. In some cases stimulants can alter your personality. You may become withdrawn or irritable, or even more rigid and obsessed. They may also increase the risk of other mental disorders, like mania and depression.

The majority of stimulants are controlled substances and require a prescription. They are often misused by adults and teens for the purpose of performance enhancement, and can result in addiction if used in a way that is not prescribed. Because of these risks, doctors carefully evaluate the need for stimulant medication and be aware of the dosage and any adverse effects.

Non-stimulant medication

There are a myriad of non-stimulant ADHD medication options, and the one that is most appropriate for you is based on your personal needs. These are prescription drugs however they do not act on the same brain chemicals as stimulants. Non-stimulants are less likely have negative side effects however they may take longer to effect and last only for a period of 24 hours. Most of these drugs operate by increasing the amount of norepinephrine in the brain. This includes antidepressants such as bupropion (Wellbutrin) nortriptyline and Pamelor.

Psychotherapy

Therapy can help a person learn how to cope with symptoms and develop new coping strategies that include managing stress and impulsivity. BetterHelp is an online therapy platform connects people dealing with adhd without medication licensed therapists trained to treat ADHD and other mental health conditions. Take a free assessment and get connected with a therapist in less than 48 hours. Stimulant or non-stimulant medications can assist people suffering from ADHD reduce their impulsivity and increase their ability of focus, but they do not solve the root cause. In addition to talk therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness-based therapies can teach a person techniques to control an impulsive personality and improve their ability to manage their emotions. These techniques can be taught by an ADHD coach, or practiced with a trained therapist. They can be taught to caregivers and parents to assist the child or adult suffering from ADHD in these areas. In certain situations, a combination between medication and talk therapy may be the most effective approach.