ADHD Medication
Medication is often an integral part of an ADHD treatment strategy. The two most commonly used stimulant medications are dextroamphetamine and the methylphenidate. Each of these stimulant medicines has many different brands and each has a distinct chemical makeup.
Stimulants boost the levels of brain chemicals that aid in pass messages between neurons. They are the first drugs that healthcare providers usually try for adults with ADHD.
Stimulants
The majority of doctors prescribe stimulants as their first treatment for ADHD. They work by increasing the levels of certain brain chemicals, such as norepinephrine and dopamine. These can improve focus, decrease impulsive behavior, and promote calmness. Doctors often prescribe amphetamines (including methylphenidate) or atomoxetine, which belongs to the class of antidepressants known as selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors to treat ADHD. Serious heart-related complications are rare, but doctors may monitor people with heart problems closely when they are taking stimulants.
ADHD is usually treated effectively by taking stimulant medications, especially for children and adolescents. These medications boost brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine which help them concentrate, focus, and learn. They also boost energy and wakefulness. Studies have proven that if taken in the right way they can significantly enhance school performance. Many experts are concerned that students who use stimulants for long periods may develop a tolerance, and may require more doses. They may also cause negative side effects, such as changes in appetite, sleep issues, anxiety, or depression.
Doctors who recommend ADHD medication typically start by prescribing a low dose, and then gradually increase the amount over a few weeks. Parents and you will be asked to track the effects on you and the benefits of the medication. If the medicine does not seem to work or has side effects you cannot cope with, your physician might try another drug.
The majority of kids and adults who use stimulant medications have at the very least some side effects. Most of them are mild, and they go away within a few weeks or days as the body gets used to the medication. Some of the more common side effects are loss of appetite, trouble sleeping, and a fast heart rate.
Certain studies have revealed that people who take stimulant medication for ADHD are more susceptible to tics. These are repetitive movements or noises like eye blinking or throat clearing. These medications do not cause tics, but make them more noticeable. ADHD medications may also cause a change in voice or mood, headaches, stomach upset and sometimes an increase or decrease in blood pressure or heartbeat.
A few nonstimulant medications--including Strattera (atomoxetine) and Qelbree (viloxazine)--have been approved by the FDA to treat ADHD. These drugs act differently than stimulants, increasing levels of norepinephrine. This is another brain chemical that aids in attention and impulse control. They can help reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder. They have fewer adverse effects than stimulants, however, they aren't as effective in treating ADHD symptoms. If you suffer from bipolar disorder or depression your doctor may recommend that you try these drugs. adhd uk medication I Am Psychiatry may also recommend psychosocial treatments to help manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.