Medications and Therapy For ADHD
Combining medication and therapy can help control ADHD. adhd medication ritalin treats the brain, while therapy helps people cope and learn skills.
Stimulants, such as lisdexamfetamine and methylphenidate, increase levels of two chemical substances in the brain, which transmit messages between cells. This increases the ability to focus and control impulses. The stimulants can have side effects, such as difficulty sleeping, weight loss, and increased blood pressure and heart rate.
Stimulants
Stimulants are usually the first medication used to treat ADHD. They increase levels of norepinephrine and dopamine which aid the brain to function normally. These medications help improve concentration and decrease hyperactivity and fidgeting. They also aid people to organize their lives, complete tasks and enhance relationships. The effects are not long-lasting and may cause severe side-effects. These medications can cause personality changes in certain people, particularly those with a history of Bipolar disorder or depression. They might become more withdrawn, listless or rigid, less sociable and talkative or develop obsessive-compulsive symptoms. They can also raise blood pressure and heart rate. People with a heart condition are more susceptible to these adverse effects and should be closely monitored by a doctor while taking stimulants.
Stimulants come in short- and long-acting doses. The ones that are peaking after a few hours should be taken at least three times per day, whereas long-acting or extended release medications last for between 8 and 12 hours and can be taken once per day. Both kinds can have negative effects on appetite, sleep, and growth. Consult your physician prior to taking either of them regarding the potential side effects.
Be patient. It can take some time to find the best dosage and medication for someone with ADHD. Your doctor will test several medications in small doses to determine which one is able to control the symptoms the best and has the fewest adverse effects. They may have to alter the dosage dependent on how your child or you responds.
The negative effects of ADHD medication can be a serious or a nuisance However, they tend to go away within several weeks or days as your body becomes familiar with the medication. The adverse effects of ADHD medications include stomach upset, a decrease in appetite as well as increased blood pressure, heart rate and tics. Children and adolescents who take stimulants can suffer from a slower growth and an increase in their final height.
Symptoms can return if the medication is stopped and it's crucial to talk to your doctor whether it's right for you or your child to continue taking the medication. It is important to follow up with your doctor regularly to make sure the medication is working and there aren't any problems or side effects.
Non-stimulant medications for ADHD require more time to perform than stimulants, however they can help improve attention and reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. They do not have the same potential for addiction or abuse as stimulants, however they can increase the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, so there is a chance of abuse or dependence.
Some states have laws that require doctors to keep track of patients taking certain medications. This includes ADHD medicines. These laws require that doctors meet with you or your child regularly, either in person, or by phone, to ensure that the medication is safe and effective, and to assess the person's progress. They can also monitor the effectiveness of your child's ADHD medication and look for other signs such as anxiety, depression or suicidal idea.