Medications and Therapy For ADHD
Combining medication and therapy can help manage ADHD. Medications treat the brain, while therapy helps people develop skills and cope.
Stimulants like lisdexamfetamine and methylphenidate, increase levels of two chemical substances in the brain that transmit messages between cells. This increases the ability to focus and control impulses. The stimulants can have side effects, such as insomnia, a loss of appetite, and increased heart rate and bloodpressure.
Stimulants
Medications called stimulants are often the first treatment to be tried for ADHD. They increase levels of norepinephrine and dopamine, which helps the brain function normally. These medications enhance focus and reduce hyperactivity, interrupting, and fidgeting. They also aid people to organize their lives, complete tasks, and improve relationships. The effects are not long-lasting and can cause serious side-effects. adhd medications for adults , especially those who have a history of bipolar disorder or depression, might experience personality changes when taking these medications. They might become more withdrawn or rigid and less talkative, or develop symptoms of obsessive compulsive disorders. They can also raise blood pressure and heart rate. These side effects are more likely to occur in those with heart issues. They should be closely monitored by their physician when taking stimulants.
Short-acting stimulants are available in two doses. The stimulants that peak within a couple of hours should be taken two times a day. Long-acting medications or those with extended release work for between 8 and 12 hours and can only be taken twice a week. Both can have negative side effects on sleep, appetite, and growth. Consult your physician before taking either type about the possible side effects.
Be patient. It can take some time to find the right medication and dosage for someone who has ADHD. Your doctor will test a range of medications in small doses, to determine which one is able to control the symptoms the best and has the fewest adverse effects. They may have to alter the dose as well dependent on how you or your child responds.
The adverse effects of ADHD medication can be serious or a nuisance, but they usually disappear after several weeks or days as your body becomes used to the medication. Common side effects include stomach upset, appetite loss and a rise in blood pressure and heart rate and tics (sudden repeated movements or sounds that resemble eye blinking or clearing of the throat). Children and adolescents who take stimulants can see a slowing in growth and a slight delay in their final height.
The symptoms may recur after the medication is discontinued, so it's important to talk to your doctor whether it's right for you or your child to continue taking it. You should also check in with your physician to make sure that the medication is working as planned and there aren't any side negative effects or issues.
Non-stimulant ADHD medications take longer to work, but can improve attention as well as reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. They don't have the same potential for addiction or abuse as stimulants, however they can increase the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which means there is a chance of misuse or dependency.
Some states have laws that require doctors to keep track of patients who are taking certain medications, including ADHD medications. The law requires them to meet with you or your child regularly either in person or by phone, to make sure that the medication is effective and safe, and to determine the performance of the patient. They can also assess the effectiveness of your child's ADHD medications, as well as look for other symptoms such depression, anxiety, or suicidal thought.