Medication For ADHD - What Are the Side Effects?
Many people suffering from ADHD experience a reduction in symptoms when taking medication. But every person reacts differently to different drugs, and adverse reactions can be problematic.
Methylphenidate is a stimulant. It is a stimulant that increases levels of a brain chemical that helps control the behavior and focus.
Stimulant medication
Stimulant medication improves concentration and attention for 70 to 80% of children and adults that use it. adhd medication uk alter the neurotransmitters involved in the brain, such as dopamine and norepinephrine. They typically cause an initial rise in blood pressure and heart rate that lasts several hours. Many experts recommend that you start low and gradually increase the dose over several weeks.
Stimulant medications are typically taken orally, one or two times a day. There are short-acting and long-acting versions for most stimulants. Short-acting stimulants peak within a few hours and must be taken twice a day. Long-acting stimulants last for 8 to 12 hours and are taken only once a week.
These medications can trigger unwanted side effects such as nausea, insomnia and nausea. Some people might become irritable or moody. However the effects typically fade over time and can be controlled by altering the dosage. In certain instances, stimulants can cause changes in personality, for example becoming withdrawn, listless or more rigid and obsessive. They can also increase the risk of other mental disorders, like mania and depression.
The majority of stimulants are controlled substances and require a prescription to be obtained. They are frequently misused by adults and adolescents to achieve performance enhancement, and they can lead to addiction if used in a way that is not prescribed. Because of the dangers, doctors must be careful to evaluate the need for stimulant medication and to monitor dosage and adverse effects closely.
Non-stimulant medications
There are many non-stimulant ADHD medication options, and which one is most suitable for you is determined by your personal needs. These prescription medications do not alter the same brain chemicals as stimulants do. adhd and medication -stimulants are less likely to have negative side effects, however, they take longer to effect and only last for a period of 24 hours. The majority 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 teach the patient how to deal with symptoms, and develop new coping strategies, like controlling impulsivity or stress. BetterHelp, a service that provides online therapy connects people with licensed therapists trained in treating ADHD and other mental illnesses. You can take a no-cost assessment and you'll be an appointment with a therapist within less than 48 hours. Non-stimulant and stimulant medications can help people suffering from ADHD improve their ability to focus and reduce impulsivity, however they don't address the underlying causes of the disorder. In addition to talking therapy, cognitive behavior therapy and mindfulness-based therapies can teach someone techniques to control the impulsive behavior of their children and increase their ability to manage their emotions. These techniques can be learned through an ADHD coach or by practicing them with a therapist who is trained. They can be taught to caregivers and parents to help the child or adult suffering from ADHD in these areas. In some cases it is suggested to combine medications and talk therapy might be the best approach.