Five ADHD Medications Lessons From The Pros

ADHD Medications - Add ADHD Stimulants to Your Treatments

Stimulants boost the levels of brain chemicals that control behavior. Doctors prescribe stimulants to treat ADHD symptoms. They can also be used in the treatment of depression or anxiety.

Children and teens who do not take their ADHD medication typically experience more severe symptoms. That's why they need to understand the importance of following their doctors' 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 certain chemicals (neurotransmitters) in the brain, such as dopamine and norepinephrine. This improves focus and reduces impulsive behaviors. About 80% of those suffering from ADHD who take the correct dose experience fewer symptoms.

The majority of stimulants fall under the amphetamine or methylphenidate drug classes and are FDA approved to treat ADHD. The FDA has approved them as a the first-line treatment for ADHD due to of the decades of studies that have shown robust response rates, safety, tolerability and minimal adverse effects across the entire lifespan. They are not habit-forming and there is very little evidence to suggest that they 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.

medication for adhd and anxiety  are available in various forms or formulations. Methylphenidate pills are the most frequently prescribed stimulant to treat ADHD as amphetamines and atomoxetine are both available.

Some of the long-acting versions medications last up to 16 hours, and can decrease the need for an evening or afternoon dose. They can also help to avoid the rapid changes in blood pressure and heart rate that can occur when taking stimulants that have a shorter acting. Some people who take these drugs may experience what is called a "crash" effect when they stop the medication, which usually results in a sharp decrease in energy and may be difficult to deal with.

The use of these drugs can trigger other side effects, including an upset stomach, a decrease in appetite, sleep problems dry mouth, and mood changes. In rare instances stimulants can cause tics to worsen. Children and adolescents who take ADHD medication experience increased eye blinking, or throat clearing. These are usually not severe and disappear once the body adjusts to the medication. In rare cases, ADHD medications can delay growth in children and result in them being smaller than their peers.

Non-stimulant medicines take longer to get started but they don't produce the same sudden bursts of energy and can boost concentration, focus and control over time. They're not controlled substances, therefore they are less likely to be misused or lead to addiction disorders. However, some people can have the "crash" or rebound effect when they abruptly stop taking these medications.

Because ADHD can be complicated healthcare professionals typically prescribe multiple medications and track a person's bodily reactions to make sure they are getting the right amount. This is especially true if they are treating a comorbid illness such as anxiety or depression. It is essential that someone suffering from ADHD sees a psychiatrist regularly until they discover the best dosage and combination of medications. Talkiatry, an online psychiatry service that matches you with a specialist within a matter of days, can help you find a psychiatrist to evaluate your mental health. They can also help you decide whether you should get ADHD medication.