Medication For ADHD - What Are the Side Effects?
Many people who can prescribe adhd medication for adults suffer from managing adhd without medication adults notice a decrease in symptoms when they use medication. Every person's reaction is different, and side effects can be a problem.
Methylphenidate belongs to a class of medications called stimulants. It is a stimulant that increases levels of a chemical within the brain that helps control the behavior and attention.
Stimulant medications
Stimulant drugs enhance concentration and attention in 70% to the 80% of adults and children who use them. They work by altering the activity of neurotransmitters that are essential in the brain, such as dopamine and norepinephrine. Typically, they cause an initial increase in blood pressure and heart rate which lasts for a long time. Because of this, many experts recommend that people start low and build up to the appropriate dose over the course of weeks.
Stimant medication is administered by mouth, typically at least once or twice per day. Most are available in both short- and long-acting formulations. Short-acting stimulants are most effective within a couple of hours and must be taken 2-3 times a day. Long-acting stimulants last for 8-12 hours and are taken once a day.
These drugs can cause undesirable side effects such as anxiety, insomnia and nausea. They can also make people moody or angry, but these effects generally diminish over the counter adhd medication uk time and can often be controlled by adjusting the dosage. In certain instances, stimulants can alter your personality. You could become more introverted and sluggish, or obsessive and rigid. They can also increase the risk of developing other psychiatric issues, like depression and mania.
Most stimulants are controlled substances, and require prescriptions to be obtained. Adults and adolescents abuse these substances to boost performance. They may become addicted if they are not used properly or as prescribed. Because of these dangers, doctors are careful to evaluate the need for stimulant drugs and to monitor dosage and side effects carefully.
Non-stimulant medications
There are a variety of non-stimulant ADHD medications available, and the one that's most effective adhd medication for adults suitable for you is determined by your personal requirements. These are prescription drugs however they do not have the same effect on brain chemicals as stimulants. Non-stimulants are less likely have negative side effects however they may take longer to effect and only last for 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 help a person learn how to cope with symptoms and learn new coping skills that include controlling impulsivity and stress. BetterHelp is an online therapy platform connects clients with licensed therapists who are trained to treat concerta adhd medication and other mental health issues. You can be matched with an therapist within a matter of 48 hours after completing a no-cost online assessment. Non-stimulant or stimulant medications can help people with ADHD reduce impulsivity and improve their ability of focus however, they do not address the underlying causes. In addition to talking therapy, cognitive behavior 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. Parents and caregivers can be taught these methods to assist their child or adult who suffers from ADHD. In some cases the combination of medication and talk therapy may be the best option.