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The 10 Most Terrifying Things About Medication For ADHD
Medication For ADHD - What Are the Side Effects?

Many people who suffer from ADHD have a decrease in symptoms when taking medication. Every person's reaction is different, and the side effects are sometimes problematic.

Methylphenidate is part of a class of medications called stimulants. It is a stimulant that increases levels of a chemical in the brain that helps control behavior and attention.

Stimulant drugs

Stimulant medication can improve concentration and attention for 70% to 80% children and adults who take it. They alter the activity of key neurotransmitters in the brain, such as dopamine and norepinephrine. They typically cause an initial increase in blood pressure and heart rate which lasts for a long time. Many experts recommend starting at a low dose and gradually increase your dose over several weeks.

Stimant medication is taken by mouth, usually once or twice a day. Most are available in both long- and short-acting formulas. Short-acting stimulating drugs peak within a couple of hours, and must be taken two times a day. Long-acting stimulating drugs last for 8 to 12 hours and are taken only once a week.

These drugs can cause undesirable side effects such as nausea, insomnia and nausea. Some people may become irritable or moody. However these effects tend to disappear over time and are able to be controlled by changing the dosage. In some instances stimulants can cause changes in personality, such as being withdrawn, unfocused or more rigid and obsessive. They can also increase the risk of developing other mental disorders, such as depression and mania.

Most stimulants are controlled substances, and require the prescription of a doctor. Adolescents and adults misuse stimulants to boost their performance. They can become addicted when they are not utilized in a proper manner or according to the prescription. Because of the risks, doctors are very careful to evaluate the need for stimulant medications and to monitor dosage and adverse effects closely.

Non-stimulant medications


There are a variety of non-stimulant ADHD medication options, and the one that is most suitable for you is determined by your individual requirements. These medications do not alter the same brain chemicals as stimulants do. Non-stimulants cause less side effects but can take longer to kick in and last only 24 hours. They work by increasing the levels of norepinephrine that is present in the brain, and include antidepressants such as bupropion (Wellbutrin) and nortriptyline (Aventyl and Pamelor).

Psychotherapy

Talk therapy can teach a person how to cope with symptoms, and develop new coping strategies, like controlling impulsivity or stress. BetterHelp is an online therapy platform, matches people with licensed therapists trained to treat ADHD and other mental health issues. Get a free assessment and get matched with a therapist in less than 48 hours. Stimulant or non-stimulant medications can help those with ADHD reduce their impulsivity and increase their ability of focus however, they do not address the underlying causes. In addition to talk therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness-based treatments can teach people methods to manage an impulsive personality and improve their ability to manage their emotions. These techniques can be taught by an ADHD coach or practiced with a certified therapist. Parents and caregivers can be taught these techniques to help their child or adult suffering from ADHD. In medications for adhd in adults , a combination between medication and talk therapy may be the best option.

Read More: https://www.iampsychiatry.uk/adult-adhd-medication/