10 Undisputed Reasons People Hate ADHD Medication
ADHD Medications
In addition to counseling and therapy, people with ADHD may benefit from certain medications. These medications increase and stabilize levels of brain chemicals that increase the ability to focus and reduce hyperactivity.
Every person reacts differently to medicine, so it may take time to find the most suitable one. Your health care provider will monitor how the medication works and help you create the right schedule to meet your requirements.
Stimulants
Certain medications that influence the brain chemical that is involved in ADHD can improve concentration, focus, and impulse control. Doctors prescribe two kinds of drugs: stimulants and nonstimulants. The type of medication that is right for you or your child will depend on your medical history as well as the severity of your symptoms.
The most commonly used ADHD medication is stimulants. They work by increasing dopamine levels in the brain, which help increase attention and decreases the impulsivity and hyperactivity. They are available in both shorter- and long-acting versions. Short-acting stimulants can last for a couple of hours, while long-acting ones remain in your body for the whole the day.
Adults with ADHD can also benefit from stimulant medications. The majority of doctors suggest starting with a small amount and gradually increase the dosage. It may take a while to determine the most effective dosage for your child or yourself, and you may require regular follow-up visits with your doctor to alter your dosage.
The effects of stimulant medications tend to be minimal and disappear after several weeks. The side effects may include a decreased appetite, trouble sleeping, or increased heart rate and blood pressure. If you or your child suffers from an illness that increases the chance of experiencing certain adverse reactions Your doctor will discuss these with you before prescribing any medication.
In some instances, stimulants taken in high doses can result in sudden rises in heart palpitations, blood pressure or even seizures. These drugs are not recommended for people who have family history of heart disease or for those who have an history of substance abuse. They can also exacerbate certain psychiatric disorders, such as depression and bipolar disorder. Talk to your doctor to determine if they're appropriate for you or your children.
Non-stimulant ADHD medication is less likely to cause severe adverse reactions, and it's typically a second-line option for those who don't respond to stimulants. adhd no medication include atomoxetine (clonidine), Clonidine, and Guanfacine. Sometimes they are prescribed "off-label", to treat other conditions such as depression and anxiety.
Drisperidone and methylphenidate are the most commonly prescribed medications to treat ADHD. Both are available in tablet, liquid and capsule forms. They are typically taken orally once or twice a day. You or your child can wear tablets with extended-release (Intuniv or IntunivXR) that contain atomoxetine as well as Guanfacine. These tablets can be worn for up to a few weeks before they need replacing. All ADHD medications come with a risk, and there's always the possibility that they won't be effective or cause adverse side effects. But for many people, especially children and teens, the benefits outweigh the dangers. The ability to concentrate, focus and manage impulses is an important advantage for many people.