The 10 Scariest Things About Medication For ADHD

Medication For ADHD - What Are the Side Effects?

Many people with ADHD experience a reduction in symptoms when they use medication. But each person reacts differently to different drugs, and adverse effects can be a problem.

Methylphenidate is a stimulant. It works by raising levels of a substance in the brain that aids in controlling the behavior and attention.

Stimulant medications

Stimulant medication improves attention and concentration for 70% to 80% children and adults who use it. They affect neurotransmitters such as norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. They typically cause an initial increase in heart rate and blood pressure that lasts for several hours. Many experts suggest starting at a low dose and gradually increase the dose over several weeks.

Stimant medication is taken by mouth, typically at least once or twice per day. There are short-acting as well as long-acting versions of many stimulants. Short-acting stimulants are most effective after a short time and should be taken 3 times per day. Long-acting stimulants last between 8 and 12 hours and are taken once per day.

These drugs can trigger unwanted side effects, including nausea, insomnia and a decrease in appetite. Some people might become irritable or moody. However the effects typically diminish over time and can be controlled by altering the dosage. In some cases, stimulants can cause changes in personality, for example becoming withdrawn, listless or more rigid and obsessive. They can also increase the risk of developing other mental disorders, like depression and mania.

Most stimulants are controlled drugs and require a prescription. Adults and adolescents use stimulants to boost their performance. They can become addicted when they aren't taken in the correct manner or as directed. Because of these risks, doctors must carefully assess the need for stimulant medications and keep track of the dosage and adverse effects.

Non-stimulant drugs

There are a variety of non-stimulant adhd without medication medicines and the most effective one depends on the individual. These are prescription medicines, but they do not act on the same brain chemicals as stimulants. Non-stimulants are less likely to cause negative effects, but take longer to kick in and last only for 24 hours. Most of these medications used to treat adhd are able to increase the levels of norepinephrine in the brain. This includes antidepressants such as bupropion (Wellbutrin), nortriptyline, and Pamelor.

Psychotherapy

Therapy can help someone learn how to manage symptoms and learn new coping skills that include controlling impulsivity and stress. BetterHelp is a company that offers therapy online, matches people to licensed therapists trained in treating adhd medication in the uk and other mental disorders. You can get matched to the right therapist in just 48 hours after completing a free online assessment. Non-stimulant and stimulant medications can help those with ADHD improve their ability to concentrate and reduce impulsivity, but they don't address the root causes of the disorder. Cognitive mindfulness and behavioral therapy can be combined with talk therapy to teach people how to control their impulsive behavior. These techniques can be taught by an ADHD coach or practiced with a trained therapist. Parents and caregivers can general practitioners prescribe adhd medication be taught these methods to assist their child or adult suffering from ADHD. In certain cases, a combination between medication and talk therapy may be the best approach.