ADHD Medications - Add ADHD Stimulants to Your Treatments
Stimulants raise levels of brain chemicals that control behavior. Doctors prescribe stimulants to treat ADHD symptoms. They can also be used in the treatment of depression or anxiety.
Children and teens who don't take their ADHD medication often experience worse symptoms. This is why they should know the importance of following their doctors and their instructions.
Stimulants
The most common medication used by healthcare professionals to treat ADHD in adults and children is stimulants. They work by increasing levels of certain chemicals (neurotransmitters) in the brain, like dopamine and norepinephrine. This helps people focus better and lessens impulse-driven behavior. Around 90% of ADHD sufferers who take the right dose experience fewer ADHD symptoms.
The majority of stimulants belong to the amphetamine or methylphenidate class of drugs and are FDA approved to treat ADHD. The FDA has approved them as first-line treatment for ADHD because of the decades of research that have demonstrated high response rates, tolerability and minimal adverse effects across the lifespan. They are not habit-forming and there is little evidence that they can cause a substance abuse disorder. However, if they are used in higher-than-prescribed amounts, or by people who don't have ADHD, they can lead to serious side effects and even cause brain changes.
These drugs are available in different forms or formulations. The most commonly used form of stimulant prescribed to treat ADHD is methylphenidate pills. Amphetamines, atomoxetine and amphetamines are also available.
Some long-acting stimulants can last for up to 16 hours and may reduce the requirement for a daily dose in the afternoon. They also can help prevent the rapid increase in blood pressure and heart rate that could occur when taking stimulants that have a shorter acting. Some people who take these medications may have what's known as a "crash" effect after they stop taking the medication which usually results in a abrupt decrease in energy that may be difficult to deal with.
for beginners can cause other side effects, such as upset stomach or appetite suppression, as well as sleep issues. They can also cause dry mouth, mood changes, and sleep problems. In rare instances, stimulants may worsen tics. Some children and adolescents who are taking ADHD medication have an increase in eye blinking, or throat clearing. These are usually mild and go away once the body adjusts to the medication. In rare cases, ADHD medications can delay growth in children and cause them to be shorter than their peers.
Non-stimulant drugs take longer to begin working however they don't trigger the same sudden bursts energy and can boost concentration, attention and control over time. Since they aren't controlled substances, they are less likely be misused or lead to substance abuse disorders. However, some people may suffer an "crash" or rebound effect, when they stop using them.
Because ADHD can be complicated healthcare professionals typically prescribe a variety of medications and keep track of the person's bodily reactions to ensure they are getting the right amount. This is especially true if the healthcare provider is treating a comorbid disorder such as anxiety or depression. It is crucial that anyone suffering from ADHD visits a psychiatrist regularly until they can find the ideal dosage and combination of medications. If types of adhd medication in search of a psychiatrist who can evaluate your mental health and assist you in deciding whether to add ADHD medications, Talkiatry is an online psychiatry practice that will connect you with a doctor within a matter of days.