ADHD Medications
In addition to counseling and therapy, people with ADHD may benefit from certain medications. These medicines boost and balance levels of brain chemicals, which improve the ability to focus and reduce hyperactivity.
It might take some time to locate the right medicine for you. Your doctor will monitor the effectiveness of the medication and assist you in establishing a schedule that suits your needs.
Stimulants
Medications that affect certain brain chemicals involved in ADHD can help improve concentration as well as focus and control. Doctors prescribe two kinds of drugs: stimulants and no-stimulants. adhd medication for adults uk of medicine that is appropriate for your child or yourself will depend on your medical history and the severity of your symptoms.
The most commonly used ADHD treatment is stimulants. They increase dopamine levels in the brain, which help boost attention and reduces hyperactivity and impulsivity. They come in both long- and short-acting forms. Short-acting stimulants last for a couple of hours, while long-acting ones stay in the body for the whole day long.
The majority of children with ADHD use stimulant medication, but they can also be used to treat adults suffering from the disorder. Most doctors recommend that you start with a small dose and gradually increase it. It may take a while to determine the most effective dosage for your child, or yourself, and you might need regular follow-up appointments with your doctor to adjust the dosage.
Side effects of stimulant medications are usually minimal and disappear after some weeks. They can result in a decreased appetite, trouble sleeping and an increase in heart rate or blood pressure. Your doctor will discuss with you the possibility of any side effects when you or your child have a medical condition which increases the risk.
In some cases stimulants in high doses can cause sudden increases in heart palpitations, blood pressure or even seizures. These medicines are not recommended to people with a history or family of heart disease or drug abuse. Stimulants may also worsen some mental health disorders, like depression and bipolar disorder. Consult your physician to determine if they're right for you or your children.
Nonstimulant ADHD medications are less likely to have severe side effects and are typically considered a second-line treatment for people who don't respond to stimulants. These include atomoxetine, the clonidine and guanfacine. They are also sometimes prescribed "off-label" to treat other disorders, like anxiety or depression.
The most frequently prescribed medications for ADHD are the methylphenidate (Ritalin) and drisperidone (Dilantin). Both are available in tablet, liquid and capsule forms. Tablets are usually taken once or twice daily by mouth. You or your child may wear tablets with extended-release (Intuniv or IntunivXR) that contain atomoxetine as well as guanfacine. These pills can be worn for up to several weeks before they need replacing. All ADHD medications carry some risk, and there's always the possibility that they won't be effective or cause adverse side effects. However, for a lot of people, particularly teenagers and children The benefits outweigh the dangers. The ability to focus, concentrate, and manage impulses can make a huge impact on their lives.