ADHD Medication - Is it Right For Your Child?
ADHD medication can make a huge difference for the majority children. But it's not the best choice for everyone. Parents need to weigh the pros and cons of each option carefully.
The most common medication prescribed by doctors to treat ADHD is stimulants. They can decrease the symptoms of hyperactivity, fidgeting and interrupting, and other symptoms. They can also trigger side effects such as headaches and jitteriness.
Stimulants
Stimulants are medicines that increase the activity of the peripheral and central nervous systems. They boost the transmission of brain signals, which allows people to focus better and improves their ability to learn. They also increase efficiency, alertness, and the level of arousal, as well as reduce appetite. However, they can also cause adverse effects, such as an irregular heartbeat and high blood pressure. Stimulants are prescribed to treat ADHD however, they can also be used to treat various conditions. People with ADHD may experience difficulties at work, school or in their relationships. They are often impulsive and have trouble planning ahead. Their behaviour can be affected by their moods and mood, for example, being extremely irritable or angry.
The use of medication can help those with ADHD improve their ability to plan and stick with tasks, and manage their impulsive behaviors. However, it isn't an effective treatment for the condition. Many sufferers experience symptoms that persist even after taking medication. Some people also have underlying issues that cause their symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, or drug addiction. These issues could require treatment with other treatments before the symptoms of ADHD can be addressed.
The drugs used to treat ADHD may have various names, but they all contain the same active ingredient: methylphenidate. Methylphenidate is a fast-acting drug because it is released into the body in a short time. It can also have an immediate impact on mood. It is also known as Ritalin. However it is possible to be purchased under the brand name Ritalin LA. This medication is released over a longer time and may be a long-lasting effect.
Because of the risk of abuse, stimulants are closely controlled and only prescribed by a paediatrician neurologists or psychiatrists (and sometimes GPs in exceptional circumstances). They are only prescribed as a last resort after all other options have been exhausted.
Some research suggests that physical activity can alleviate ADHD symptoms by increasing brain chemicals such as dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine. It is also important to get enough rest. Encourage your child or adult to fall asleep at a regular time and to stick to a consistent routine, especially for meal times. Drinking less caffeine-rich drinks can help.
Amphetamines
Amphetamines stimulate receptors in the brain, which increase the activity of neurotransmitters such as norepinephrine or dopamine. These are associated with cognitive function, motivation and movement. They have been used to treat a wide variety of illnesses however, they are now mostly prescribed for ADHD and narcolepsy, as well as obesity. They are also used as a recreational drug to boost athletic performance and to increase feelings of euphoria and energy.
They are available in different forms, ranging from a single capsule to extending-release tablets. The dosage is adapted according to the patient's age, weight as well as medical history and the effects of the drug. They can be taken by both children and adults. Combining them with other medications can lessen the effects of side effects and help patients to get through their day.
Stimulants are typically the first treatment option for ADHD, and they are generally effective for most patients. It may take some time to determine the right dose because everyone reacts differently to medication. Your doctor will be monitoring the body reactions of you or your child until they can determine the correct dosage. They will continue to monitor it over time to make sure it is working.
Many experts believe that a combination of behavior therapy and medication is the most effective treatment for ADHD. However, some psychiatrists argue that stimulants are prescribed too often and could cause negative side effects like cardiovascular issues addiction, psychiatric disorders and cardiovascular problems such as bipolar disorder. Some people have also reported symptoms of tics or Tourette syndrome while taking stimulants.
A new study, known as a meta-analysis of networks, examined all available evidence on the effectiveness and safety of various medications for ADHD in adults, ranging from dextroamphetamine to methylphenidate and atomox. Researchers were able to evaluate the results of different studies, even though they had not been tested directly against each other. Meta-analyses have in the past only focused on specific groups of patients or one drug.
The study found that all the medications studied helped to reduce ADHD symptoms however methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine were better than other drugs. The study suggested that these two medications be tested first, before switching to the standard dexamfetamine if they do not work. Other medications to look at are atomoxetine as well as Guanfacine.
Antidepressants
Many people who suffer from ADHD also have co-existing depression or anxiety, and some ADHD medication side effects appear like symptoms from other mental health issues. If your adult or child is taking ADHD medication, and you notice symptoms of anxiety or depression consult your physician right away. You might be required to add a different medication to your treatment regimen or change the medication.
They aren't usually prescribed for depression alone but they can be beneficial for people who have both depression and ADHD. They help reduce depression symptoms, like fatigue and trouble working, and help manage ADHD symptoms such as hyperactivity and an impulsive nature.
Antidepressants do not usually treat ADHD. However, they can be helpful in the event that stimulants fail to function or cause unwanted adverse side effects. The most commonly used antidepressant drugs are SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors), but tricyclic antidepressants, such as imipramine and nortriptyline, are often used to treat ADHD. Adults suffering from ADHD can also be treated with an antidepressant that is atypical, bupropion. It has been demonstrated to reduce impulsivity and improve inattention.
Non-stimulant ADHD medications are also available and generally have a lower chance of abuse, however they may cause problems with insomnia or agitation in certain people. Other adverse effects could include stomach upset and headaches. These medications are usually prescribed in long-acting formulations or extended-release forms that last between six and 16 hours. This can lower the fluctuations in levels of drugs in the body. Many people take a long-acting or extended-release medication taken in the morning with an immediate release dose that is taken from mid to late afternoon to cover times of day when the first medication starts to wear off.
Therapy can supplement medications for ADHD by teaching people new strategies for coping and helping them break bad habits. BetterHelp is an online service that connects clients with licensed, accredited therapists that specialize in ADHD as well as depression and anxiety. It takes just a few minutes to take a test, and you'll be matched to the right therapist in as short as 48 hours.
Other medicines
Many people with ADHD use non-stimulant medications to treat their symptoms. These include atomoxetine also known as Strattera and viloxazine, which is known as Qelbree. They are in the class of antidepressants and function, according to theory, by increasing levels of norepinephrine, a chemical. This aids the brain's nerves pass messages to each other which improves focus and reduces impulsiveness. They are also less likely to trigger adverse effects like sleepiness or appetite suppression as stimulant medications.
The stimulant drugs can cause negative side effects, like an upset stomach as well as changes to blood pressure or heart rate. adhd medication uk for adults may also cause tics (spontaneous repeated vocal sounds or movements) more apparent and uncomfortable. The stimulant medications can also slow growth and lead to weight loss in children. These effects are temporary and your physician will prescribe the appropriate dosage for your child or you.
Your child should be on medication for 3 to 4 weeks before you see an improvement in their ADHD symptoms. The doctor will monitor the progress of your child or you closely and adjust the dose as needed. The medication alone will not solve the issue, so it's essential to speak with your child's health professional about a behavioral therapy program as well.
Methylphenidate, the most commonly prescribed stimulant medication for ADHD however, is not the only alternative. Short-acting methylphenidate medications such as Adderall and Ritalin release the medication quickly into your system, and they have to be taken multiple times a day. Long-acting methylphenidate drugs, such as Evekeo or Ritalin SR release the medication slowly throughout the day. They are available in tablets that can be swallowed or crushed, as liquids and as tablets that quickly dissolve in the mouth (Evekeo ODT). The two methylphenidate types are similar to amphetamines, but, are generally considered safer than amphetamines in young people. They are also less likely to cause heart problems or addiction. Amphetamines are a little more potent than methylphenidate, and can last up to 16 hours, but they're much more likely to cause heart issues.