ADHD Medication - Is it Right For Your Child?
ADHD medication can make a big difference for the majority of kids. But it's not right for everyone. Parents must weigh the pros and cons with care.
Stimulants are the most commonly prescribed drugs prescribed by doctors to treat ADHD. They can cut down on the frequency of interruptions, hyperactivity fidgeting, agitation and other signs. They can also trigger side effects like jitteriness and headaches.
Stimulants
Stimulants are medications that boost the activity of the central and peripheral nervous system. They improve the transmission of signals within the brain which allows people to focus better and increase their ability to learn. They also boost productivity, alertness, and arousal, and reduce appetite. They can also trigger adverse effects, such as an irregular heartbeat or high blood pressure. The use of stimulants is to treat ADHD but they can also be used to treat various circumstances. People with ADHD can suffer from problems at school, work, and in their relationships. They are often indecisive and are unable to plan ahead. Their behavior can also be influenced by their mood, such as being overly irritable or angry.
The use of medication can help those with ADHD improve their ability to plan and stick with tasks, as well as manage their impulsive behavior. It is not a cure, and many sufferers continue to suffer from symptoms even after taking medication. Some people also have underlying issues that contribute to their symptoms, including depression, anxiety or addiction to drugs. These issues may require other therapies to alleviate the symptoms of ADHD.
Methylphenidate is the main ingredient in all ADHD medications. Methylphenidate enters the body in a brief amount of time, which means it acts quickly and can produce a rapid impact on mood. It is sometimes referred to as Ritalin but the same medicine is also available under the brand name Ritalin LA, which is released into the body over a longer period of time and can have an effect lasting up to four hours.
Due to the possibility of misuse, stimulants are strictly controlled and can only be prescribed by a paediatrician neurologists or psychiatrists (and occasionally, GPs in certain situations). They are generally only recommended as a last resort after all other treatment options have been exhausted.
managing adhd without medication suggests that physical activity can alleviate ADHD symptoms by increasing levels of brain chemicals like dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine. Getting enough sleep is also important. Encourage your adult or child to go to bed at a reasonable hour and stick to a regular routine, particularly for meals. Avoiding caffeine-containing drinks could help.
Amphetamines
Amphetamines trigger receptors in the brain and increase the activity of neurotransmitters including norepinephrine and dopamine. These are associated with cognitive function, motivation and movement. They were previously used to treat a variety of conditions, but are now prescribed mainly for ADHD, obesity and Narcolepsy. Additionally, they are used for recreational purposes to boost the performance of athletes and to feel euphoric.
These drugs come in many forms, ranging from a single tablet to extended-release capsules. The dosage is typically adjusted according to weight and age as well as medical background and how the drug affects the patient. Children and adults alike can take these medications. They are often used in conjunction with other medications to lessen side effects or help people get through the day.
Stimulants are typically the first treatment for ADHD and are usually effective. It can take time to find the right dose because every person reacts differently to the medication. Your doctor will observe the body reactions of your child or you until they find the right dose. They will continue to monitor it for a period of time to ensure it is working.
Many experts believe that a combination of behavioral therapy and medication is the best treatment for ADHD. However, some psychiatrists argue that stimulants are over-prescribed and could cause dangerous side effects, such as cardiovascular problems addiction, psychiatric disorders and cardiovascular problems such as bipolar disorder. They've also been linked with disorders like tics and Tourette syndrome in certain individuals.
A new study, dubbed a "network meta-analysis" looked at all available evidence on the safety and effectiveness of ADHD in adults who take various drugs, ranging from methylphenidate to dextroamphetamine, and Atomoxetine. Researchers were able to compare results from individual trials, even although they were not directly tested against one another. Meta-analyses previously focused on specific groups of patients or a single drug.
The study found that all the drugs tested aid in reducing ADHD symptoms, but lisdexamfetamine and methylphenidate were better than other drugs. The study recommended that these two medications be first tried and then switched to dexamfetamine standard if don't work. Two other medications you should think about are guanfacine and atomoxetine.
Antidepressants
Many people who suffer from ADHD also have co-existing anxiety or depression Some ADHD medication side effects can look like the symptoms of other mental health issues. Talk to your doctor if you notice signs of depression or anxiousness in your child or adult who is taking ADHD medication. You may need to change the dosage or add a different medication to your treatment plan.
non prescription adhd medication used to treat ADHD aren't usually prescribed on their own for depression however they can be helpful for people with an underlying depression and ADHD. They reduce depression symptoms like fatigue and trouble in concentration, while also reducing ADHD symptoms like hyperactivity and an impulsive nature.
Antidepressants are not typically used to treat ADHD. However, they can be helpful if stimulants fail to work or cause unwanted side effects. The most common antidepressant medications are SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors), but tricyclic antidepressants, such as nortriptyline and imipramine, are sometimes used to treat ADHD. Adults with ADHD are also treated with the atypical antidepressant, bupropion. It has been shown to reduce impulsivity and improve inattention.
Non-stimulant ADHD medications are also available, and typically have a lower risk of abuse, however they can cause issues with agitation or insomnia in certain people. Other adverse effects could include stomach upset and headaches. These medications are available in extended-release formulations or long-acting forms that last between six and 16 hours. This could decrease the fluctuation of levels of drugs in the body. Many people supplement a long-acting or extended-release medication taken in the morning with an instant-release dose taken mid- to late afternoon to cover times of the day when the first medication starts to wear off.
Therapy can be a complement to treatments for ADHD by helping people learn new coping techniques and helping them break bad habits. BetterHelp is an online service that connects users with licensed, accredited therapists who are experts in a variety of topics including ADHD and depression, anxiety, and relationships. The assessment can be completed in a matter of minutes and be matched with a therapist within 48 hours.
Other medicines
Many people with ADHD take non-stimulant medicines to help manage their symptoms. These medications include atomoxetine (brand name Strattera) and viloxazine (brand name Qelbree). These antidepressants are believed to work by increasing levels of norepinephrine. This helps nerves in the brain communicate with each other. This increases concentration and decreases impulses. They are less likely to have adverse effects such as sleepiness or appetite suppression when compared to stimulant medications.
Stimulant medication can cause unpleasant side effects, such as an upset stomach and changes in heartbeat or blood pressure. They may also cause tics (spontaneous, repetitive vocal sounds or movements) more apparent and uncomfortable. The stimulant medications can also slow growth and lead to weight loss in some children. These effects last for a short time and your physician will prescribe the correct dosage for your child or yourself.
You will not see any significant improvement in your child's ADHD symptoms until you have been on the medication for a minimum of three to four weeks. The doctor will closely monitor your child or you and adjust the dosage as necessary. The problem can't be solved by medication alone, so you should discuss the possibility of behavioral therapy with your child's physician.
Methylphenidate, the most commonly prescribed stimulant medication for ADHD but it's not the only option. Short-acting methylphenidate drugs such as Adderall and Ritalin release the medication rapidly into your system, and must be taken several times a day. Long-acting methylphenidate medicines, such as Evekeo and Ritalin SR release the medication slowly throughout the day. These medications are available in liquids and tablets that can be swallowed or crushed, and tablets that quickly dissolve (Evekeo ODt) that dissolve immediately in the mouth. Both of these types of methylphenidate are similar to amphetamine but are generally regarded to be safer for children than amphetamines. They are less likely to cause addiction and heart problems. Amphetamines can last up to sixteen hours and are more potent than methylphenidate. However they are more likely to cause heart issues.