ADHD Medications - Add ADHD Stimulants to Your Treatments
Stimulants boost the levels of brain chemicals that control behavior. Doctors prescribe stimulants to treat ADHD symptoms. They may also be prescribed to treat symptoms of depression or anxiety.
Children and teens who don't take their ADHD medication are often afflicted with more symptoms. This is why they must understand the importance of following doctors' instructions.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the most popular type of medication healthcare providers use to treat ADHD in both adults and children. They help by increasing the levels of neurotransmitters (chemicals) in the brain like dopamine and norepinephrine. This allows people to concentrate more effectively and decreases impulse-driven behavior. Around 80percent of ADHD sufferers who are taking the right dose are less prone to ADHD symptoms.
FDA-approved stimulants include those in the amphetamine and methylphenidate class. They are considered first-line treatments for the disorder due to years of research that has demonstrated high response rates with good tolerability and safety throughout the life span, and a low rate of adverse effects. They are also non-habit-forming, and there is no evidence that they cause a substance use disorder. However, if they are used in higher-than-prescribed amounts, or by people who don't have ADHD, they can lead to serious side effects and even cause brain changes.
These drugs come in different types, or formulations. The most common form of stimulant prescribed to treat ADHD is methylphenidate pills. Amphetamines and atomoxetine as well as amphetamines are also available.
Certain long-acting versions of these drugs last for up to 16 hours, and can decrease the need for a daily evening or afternoon dose. They also help keep from the rapid changes in blood pressure and heart rate that can occur with shorter-acting stimulants. Some people who are taking these medications may suffer from a "crash effect" when they stop taking them. This is typically characterized by a sudden and sharp reduction in energy.
These medications can also trigger additional side effects like stomach upset or appetite suppression, as well as sleep issues. They can also cause dry mouth, mood swings and sleep issues. In rare cases stimulants can cause tics that get worse. Some children and adolescents who are taking ADHD medication have an increase in eye blinking, or throat clearing. adult adhd medication uk are usually mild and disappear after the body has adjusted to the medication. In rare instances, ADHD medications can delay growth in young people and make them shorter than their peers.
adhd medication uk for adults -stimulant drugs are more difficult to use, but they do not produce the same surges of energy. They also help enhance focus, attention and impulse control with time. Because they're not controlled substances they are less likely to be misused or to lead to substance abuse disorders. However, some individuals might experience a "crash" or rebound effect, if they suddenly stop using the drugs.
Due to the complexity of ADHD, healthcare providers prescribe multiple medications and keep track of the body's reactions to ensure a person is getting the correct dosage. This is particularly true in the case of a healthcare professional treating a comorbid condition like depression or anxiety. It is crucial that someone suffering from ADHD consults with a psychiatrist on a regular basis until they find the right dosage and combination of medications. Talkiatry, an online psychiatry service that matches you with a provider within a matter of days, can help you find a psychiatrist who can assess your mental health. They can also help you decide whether you should get ADHD medication.