ADHD Medications - Add ADHD Stimulants to Your Treatments
Stimulants boost the brain chemicals that regulate behaviour. Doctors often prescribe these medications to treat ADHD symptoms. They can also incorporate them in treatments for depression or anxiety.
Kids and teens who don't take their ADHD medications often have worse symptoms. That's why they need to know the importance of following their doctors and their instructions.
Stimulants
The most common medication used by healthcare providers to treat ADHD in adults and children is stimulants. They work by increasing the levels of neurotransmitters (chemicals) in the brain like dopamine and norepinephrine. This improves focus and reduces impulsive behaviors. Approximately 80% of people with ADHD who take the correct dosage experience less symptoms.
FDA-approved stimulants include those in the amphetamine and methylphenidate class. They are considered the first-line treatment for the disorder because of decades of research showing robust response rates, good tolerability and safety across the lifespan and a low risk of adverse effects. They are not habit-forming and there is very little evidence to suggest they could cause an addiction 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.
The drugs are available in different varieties or formulations. The most common form of stimulant prescribed to treat ADHD is methylphenidate pills. Amphetamines, atomoxetine, and amphetamines are also available.
Some of the long-acting versions medications last for up to 16 hours and could reduce the need for an afternoon or evening dose. They can also help to prevent the rapid changes in blood pressure and heart rate that are typical of shorter-acting stimulants. Certain people who take these drugs may have a "crash effect" when they stop taking them. This is characterized by a sudden, sharp decrease in energy.
The use of these drugs can trigger other adverse effects, such as an upset stomach, a decrease in appetite and sleep issues dry mouth, and mood swings. In rare cases stimulants can cause tics to worsen. For example certain adolescents and children who are taking ADHD medicine have increased eye blinking or throat clearing. These are usually not severe and will go away when the body adjusts to the medication. In rare cases ADHD medication can cause children to grow slower and be shorter than their peers.
adhd medication uk for adults -stimulant medications take longer to get started but they don't produce the same sudden bursts energy, and can help improve attention, focus and impulse control over time. Since they're not controlled substances they are less likely be misused or to lead to substance abuse disorders. However, some people might experience the "crash", or rebound effect, if they stop using the drugs.
Due to the complexity of ADHD, healthcare providers prescribe multiple medications and track the body's reactions to ensure that a person is getting the correct dose. This is especially important if they are treating a co-occurring condition like anxiety or depression. It is crucial that anyone suffering from ADHD sees a psychiatrist regularly until they can find the ideal combination of medication and dosage. If you're in search of a psychiatrist who can evaluate your mental health and assist you in deciding whether to consider adding ADHD medications, Talkiatry is an online psychiatry practice that can connect you with a doctor within a matter of days.