ADHD Treatment Medication
Adults with ADHD are usually treated with medication and psychosocial therapy. Medications used to treat ADHD include stimulants and nonstimulant medication.
Stimulants, like lisdexamfetamine and methylphenidate, act on chemical messengers in the brain to improve mood, concentration and control of impulses. Atomoxetine and guanfacine are nonstimulant ADHD medications that can be given to teenagers, adults or children, if they don't respond to stimulants.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the most commonly prescribed drugs to treat ADHD. They boost the levels of neurotransmitters (dopamine and norepinephrine) in the brain, which help people manage their behavior and pay attention. They have been proven to reduce ADHD symptoms in 70 to 80% of adults and children. This includes the reduction of hyperactivity, fidgeting, and interrupting, assisting with tasks and improving relationships. They have also been proven to improve academic performance and reduce absences.
These drugs are typically taken orally. They are available in two forms of immediate-release (short-acting) and extended-release. The longer-acting type is slowly absorbed into the bloodstream, and wears off more slowly than the shorter-acting dosage. This can prevent the "crash" effect that occurs when a medication wears off and symptoms come back, including low mood, feeling of hunger, and fatigue.
natural adhd medication used stimulant for teenagers and children is methylphenidate. It is available in chewable pills, oral patches and tablets that can be taken in a swallow. Adderall and Dexedrine are amphetamines that are more potent and last for longer than methylphenidate. Atomoxetine can be prescribed to children and adults over five years old, if other medications fail to work or cause unwanted effects.
Amphetamines can affect the heart and are therefore not recommended for those with heart problems. They can also be misused and lead to addiction.
There are also nonstimulant drugs for ADHD, but these require a longer time to begin working and don't have the same effect as stimulants. They are typically used in conjunction with behavioral therapy and are often called multimodal treatment.
Certain studies have demonstrated that a combination of medication and behavior therapy can improve how well people with ADHD perform at home, school or work. A single medication isn't enough to manage the condition, and many sufferers with ADHD continue to struggle even though they are taking medication.
In these instances it is important to discuss with your doctor about alternatives to treatment are available. Psychoeducation is one of the treatments that can help children, teens and adults recognize the signs of ADHD and develop strategies to deal with it. This is often coupled with behavioural therapy and skills training, which can help improve the way people suffering from ADHD perform at school and at work.
While some ADHD medications can have side effects, these tend to be minor and short-lived. Most of these go away as a person's body gets used to the medication and if they persist, your doctor may be able to modify the dosage or the type of medicine. It is essential to inform your doctor of any changes in mood, appetite, sleep or stomach upset your child or you experience when taking this medication. This information will allow your doctor to determine the right medication for you or your child. This is important, especially in the event that you suffer from other health conditions which may affect the medication and increase your risk of having side effects.