Medication For ADHD Isn't As Difficult As You Think

Medication For ADHD – What Are the Side Effects? Many people suffering from ADHD have a decrease in symptoms when they use medication. Every person's reaction to medication is different, and side effects can be a problem. Methylphenidate is part of a class of medications called stimulants. It increases the levels of a brain chemical that regulates behavior and attention. Stimulant medication Stimulant drugs improve attention and concentration in 70% to the 80% of children and adults who use them. They work by altering neurotransmitters, such as norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. They usually trigger an initial rise in blood pressure and heart rate that lasts several hours. Because of this, experts recommend that patients start with a lower dose and increase it to the optimal dose over a period of weeks. Stimant medication is taken by mouth, usually at least once or twice per day. There are short-acting as well as long-acting versions of many stimulants. Short-acting stimulating drugs peak within a couple of hours, and must be taken twice daily. Long-acting stimulating drugs last for 8 to 12 hours and are taken only once a week. These drugs can trigger unwanted adverse effects, like insomnia, nausea, and a decrease in appetite. Some people may become irritable or moody. However these effects tend to disappear over time and are able to be controlled by adjusting the dosage. In some instances, stimulants may change your personality. You could become more introverted or irritable, or even more focused and rigid. They may also increase the risk of other mental disorders, like mania and depression. add medication adults of stimulants are controlled substances and require prescription. Adults and adolescents abuse these substances to boost performance. They can develop addiction when they aren't used properly or as prescribed. Because of the dangers, doctors are attentive to determine the need for stimulant drugs and to monitor dosage and effects. Non-stimulant medicines There are many non-stimulant ADHD medications and the most effective one is dependent on the person. These medications don't affect the same brain chemicals that stimulants do. Non-stimulants are less likely have negative side effects but they can take longer to work and last only for a period of 24 hours. Most of these medications operate by increasing the amount of norepinephrine in the brain. This includes antidepressants such as bupropion (Wellbutrin) nortriptyline and Pamelor. Psychotherapy Therapy can teach people how to deal with their symptoms, and also develop new coping techniques such as managing stress or controlling impulsivity. BetterHelp is a service that provides online therapy connects people with licensed therapists with expertise in treating ADHD and other mental illnesses. Get a free assessment and you'll be matched with a therapist in less than 48 hours. The use of stimulants or non-stimulants can assist people suffering from ADHD reduce their impulsivity and increase their ability of focus, but they do not tackle the root causes. In addition to talk therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness-based treatments can teach people techniques to control an impulsive personality and improve their ability to manage their emotions. These techniques can be learned by an ADHD coach or by experimenting with a therapist who is trained. They can be taught to parents and caregivers so that they can support the child or adult with ADHD in these areas. In some instances the combination of medication and talk therapy is the most effective approach.