ADHD Medications - Add ADHD Stimulants to Your Treatments
The stimulants increase brain chemicals that control behaviour. Doctors prescribe stimulants to treat ADHD symptoms. They can also be prescribed to treat symptoms of anxiety or depression.
natural adhd medication and teens who don't take their ADHD medication often experience more severe symptoms. It's important that they understand the importance of following their doctors' advice.
Stimulants
The most common medication used by healthcare professionals to treat ADHD in adults and children is stimulants. They are used to increase the levels of certain chemicals (neurotransmitters) in the brain, such as dopamine and norepinephrine. This allows people to concentrate better and reduces impulse-driven behavior. About 80% of those suffering from ADHD who are taking the right dosage experience less symptoms.
The stimulants approved by FDA are those belonging to amphetamine and methylphenidate drug class. They are considered first-line treatments for the disorder because of decades of research that has shown high response rates with good tolerability and safety throughout life, and a low rate of adverse effects. They are non-habit forming and there is little evidence to suggest that they cause an addiction 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.
The drugs are available in a variety of types or formulations. The most common form of stimulant prescribed to treat ADHD is methylphenidate pills. Amphetamines, atomoxetine and amphetamines are also available.
Certain long-acting versions of these medications last up to 16 hours and may decrease the need for an afternoon or evening dose. They can also help avoid the rapid changes in blood pressure and heart rate that can occur when taking stimulants that have a shorter acting. Certain people who take these drugs might experience a "crash effect" when they stop taking them. This is typically characterized by a sudden, sharp drop in energy.
The use of these drugs can trigger other side effects, including an upset stomach, a decrease in appetite sleep issues, dry mouth and some mood changes. In rare cases, stimulants can cause tics that get worse. For example certain adolescents and children taking ADHD medicine have increased 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 cause children to be slower growing and shorter than their peers.
Non-stimulant medications take longer to work, but they do not produce the same surges of energy. They can also enhance focus, attention and impulse control over time. Since they're not controlled substances they are less likely to be misused or cause addiction disorders. However, some individuals might suffer the "crash" or rebound effect, after they suddenly stop using these medications.
Because ADHD is a complicated condition and can be a source of stress, doctors usually prescribe several medications and monitor a person's bodily reactions to make sure they are getting the right amount. This is especially important if the healthcare provider is treating a comorbid illness such as depression or anxiety. It is crucial that a person with ADHD visits a psychiatrist regularly until they can find the ideal combination of medication and dosage. If you're in search of an expert psychiatrist who can assess your mental health and help you decide if it's time to add ADHD medications, Talkiatry is an online psychiatry practice that can match you with a provider within a matter of days.