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Medication For ADHD: 11 Things That You're Failing To Do
Medication For ADHD - What Are the Side Effects?

Many people with ADHD find their symptoms improve through medication. Each person's reaction to drugs is different, and the side effects are sometimes problematic.

Methylphenidate is a stimulant. It works by raising levels of a chemical in the brain that assists in controlling the behavior and attention.

Stimulant medication

Stimulants enhance concentration and attention in 70 to 80% of children and adults who use them. adhd treatment without medication work by altering neurotransmitters, such as norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. Typically, they cause an initial increase in heart rate and blood pressure that lasts for a few hours. Because of this, many experts recommend that people begin with a low dose and gradually increase to the appropriate dose over the course of weeks.

Stimant medication is administered by mouth, typically every day, either once or twice. The majority are available in short- and long-acting formulations. Short-acting stimulants peak within a couple of hours and must be taken 2-3 times a day. Long-acting stimulants last between 8 and 12 hours and are taken twice per day.

These drugs may cause unwanted side effects, such as nausea, insomnia and a loss of appetite. Some people may become irritable or moody. However the effects typically fade over time and can be controlled by changing the dosage. In some cases, stimulants can cause changes in personality, for example becoming withdrawn, listless or more rigid and obsessive. They can also increase the risk of other mental health problems, including mania and depression.

Most stimulants are controlled substances, and require the prescription of a doctor. They are often misused by adolescents and adults to achieve performance enhancement, and they can cause addiction if taken improperly or not as prescribed. Because of these risks doctors carefully evaluate the need for stimulant medications and monitor the dosage and side-effects.

Non-stimulant medication


There are many non-stimulant ADHD medications available, and the one that is most suitable for you is determined by your specific requirements. These prescription medications don't affect the same brain chemicals that stimulants do. Non-stimulants are less likely to have negative side effects however they may take longer to work and only last for a period of 24 hours. Most of them work by increasing the levels of norepinephrine that is present in the brain. They also contain antidepressants such as bupropion (Wellbutrin) and nortriptyline (Aventyl and Pamelor).

Psychotherapy

Therapy can help someone learn how to manage symptoms and develop new coping strategies that include managing stress and impulsivity. BetterHelp, an online therapy platform connects people with licensed therapists who are trained to treat ADHD and other mental health issues. You can find an therapist within a matter of 48 hours after taking a free online assessment. Stimulant or non-stimulant medications can help those with ADHD reduce their impulsivity and increase their ability to focus however they don't address the underlying causes. In addition to talk therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness-based therapies can teach a person methods to manage the impulsive behavior of their children and increase their ability to manage their emotions. These techniques can be taught by an ADHD coach, or practiced with a trained therapist. Parents and caregivers can learn these techniques so they can help their child or adult who suffers from ADHD. In certain situations it is suggested to combine medications and talk therapy might be the best option.

Homepage: https://www.iampsychiatry.uk/adult-adhd-medication/