ADHD Medications - Add ADHD Stimulants to Your Treatments
Stimulants increase brain chemicals that control behaviour. Doctors often prescribe them to treat ADHD symptoms. They can also incorporate them in treatment for depression or anxiety.
Children and teens who don't take their ADHD medication often experience worse symptoms. This is why they should know the importance of following doctors' instructions.
Stimulants
The most frequently used medication by healthcare professionals to treat ADHD in children and adults is stimulants. They are used to increase the levels of certain chemicals (neurotransmitters) in the brain, such as dopamine and norepinephrine. This aids in concentration and reduces impulsive behaviors. About 80% of those with ADHD who take the correct dose experience fewer symptoms.
The stimulants approved by FDA are those belonging to the amphetamine and methylphenidate class. The FDA has approved them as the first-line treatment for ADHD due to of the decades of research that have shown robust response rates, safety, tolerability and low adverse reactions throughout the life span. They are not habit-forming and there is very little evidence that they can cause a substance abuse 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. Methylphenidate pills are among the most commonly prescribed form of stimulant used to treat ADHD as amphetamines as well as atomoxetine are available.
Some long-acting stimulants can last for up to 16 hours and may reduce the requirement for a daily afternoon dose. They can also help to prevent the rapid changes in blood pressure and heart rate that are typical of shorter-acting stimulants. Some people who use these drugs might have an "crash effect" when they stop taking them. This is typically characterized by a sudden and abrupt drop in energy.
These medications can also cause other side effects such as upset stomachs, appetite suppression and sleep issues. They can also cause dry mouth, mood swings, and sleep problems. In rare cases, stimulants can cause tics to get worse. For instance certain adolescents and children taking ADHD medication experience increased eye blinking or throat clearing. dealing with adhd without medication are usually mild, and disappear after the body has adjusted to the medication. In rare cases ADHD medication can cause children to grow slower and be shorter than their peers.
Non-stimulant medications take longer to get started, but they don't cause the same sudden bursts of energy and can boost concentration, attention and control over time. Since they're not controlled substances they are less likely be misused or to lead to addiction disorders. However, some individuals may experience a "crash" or rebound effect, after they suddenly stop taking them.
Because ADHD can be complicated, healthcare providers usually prescribe multiple medications and track the body's reactions to ensure that they are receiving the correct amount. This is especially true in the case of a healthcare professional treating a comorbid disorder such as anxiety or depression. It is important that someone suffering from ADHD consults with a psychiatrist on a regular basis until they can find the ideal dosage and combination of medications. If you're looking for a psychiatrist who can evaluate your mental health and help you decide if it's time to consider adding ADHD medications, Talkiatry is an online psychiatry practice that will connect you with a specialist within days.