10 Facts About ADHD Medication That Can Instantly Put You In An Optimistic Mood
ADHD Medications
Certain medications can be beneficial to people with ADHD as well as therapy and counseling. These medications balance and boost levels of brain chemicals, which improve attention and reduce hyperactivity.
It may take some time to locate the most effective medicine for you. Your doctor will be able to observe how the medicine works and help you create an appropriate schedule that meets your needs.
Stimulants
Certain medications that affect brain chemicals that are involved in ADHD can aid in improving concentration, focus, and impulse control. Doctors prescribe two main types of drugs: stimulants and no-stimulants. The kind of medication you or your child needs will depend on the severity of symptoms and your medical background.
The most commonly used ADHD medication is stimulants. They function by increasing dopamine levels in your brain, which boosts attention and reduces hyperactivity. They are available in short- and long-acting varieties. Short-acting stimulants can last for a few hours, whereas long-acting ones remain in your body for the entire day long.
Adults with ADHD can also benefit from stimulant medications. The majority of doctors recommend starting with a low dose and working up to the appropriate amount. It could take a while to find the right dose for you or your child. You may also need to schedule regular follow-up appointments with your doctor in order to adjust your dosage.
The adverse effects of stimulant medication are typically minimal and disappear after several days. These side effects can include a decrease in appetite, difficulty sleeping, or increased blood pressure and heart rate. If you or your child is suffering from a medical condition that increases the risk of certain adverse reactions the doctor will discuss these with you prior to prescribing any medication.
In some cases excessive doses of stimulants could cause a sudden rise in heart palpitations, blood pressure or even seizures. These drugs are not recommended for those with family history of heart disease or for people with an history of substance abuse. They can also cause a worsening of certain mental disorders, such as bipolar disorder and depression, so you should discuss with your doctor whether they're appropriate for you or your child.
Nonstimulant ADHD medications are less likely to cause severe side effects and are often considered an alternative treatment for those who don't respond to stimulants. They may include the atomoxetine (Strattera) or Clonidine (Kapvay) or Guanfacine (Intuniv). Sometimes, they are prescribed "off-label" to treat other disorders, such as depression and anxiety.
The most frequently prescribed medications for ADHD are methylphenidate (Ritalin) and drisperidone (Dilantin). Both are available in tablets, liquids, or capsules. They are usually taken orally once or twice per day. does adhd medication work and Atomoxetine are available as extended-release tablets that you or your child can wear on the hip (Intuniv and Intuniv XR). These tablets are designed to be worn for several weeks at a time until they are required to be replaced. All ADHD medications come with a risk, and there's always the chance that they won't be effective or cause adverse side effects. But for many people, especially adolescents and children the benefits far outweigh the dangers. The ability to focus, concentrate and manage impulses is an important asset for many people.