Finding the Right Medication For ADHD
Many people with ADHD discover that medication can help them concentrate on their task, pay attention and control their impulses. The effects of medications vary for everyone. It could take some time to find the right dosage and dosage.
Methylphenidate medicines (Ritalin, Adderall, and other brands) increase dopamine levels in the brain and improve attention. These are the most common ADHD medicines.
Stimulants
Stimulants raise the levels of certain brain chemicals known as catecholamines (dopamine and noradrenaline) [3*3*. This boosts their effects on concentration, energy, and overall mood, making it easier for people suffering from ADHD to complete tasks. These medicines can also improve a person's ability to learn and decrease symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity. These medications are closely monitored due to the possibility of misuse. Only paediatricians, psychiatrists or neurologists are able to prescribe them in Australia (GPs in special circumstances), and a full evaluation must be conducted before they are given.
The most commonly used type of stimulant used to treat ADHD is the methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta, and Focalin). It boosts brain activity areas that are involved in attention and behavior. It is available as an immediate-release tablet that can be taken up to three times a day, or as extended-release tablets or patches (taken in the morning and slowly released throughout the rest of the day). These medications are available in liquid forms such as Ritalin Ready-to-Swallow. This is designed for children who are unable to swallow pills. Daytrana Patch is a long-acting version of the medication that can be taken by children who forget their medications in the evening.
These medications help between 70-80% of adults and kids with ADHD. They ease symptoms such as fidgeting, difficulty paying attention and causing interruptions to other people. However, they don't solve the problem and a person's ADHD symptoms will return when the medication wears off. It is crucial to adhere to the dosage prescribed and not discontinue taking it or alter the dosage without your doctor's permission.
The majority of people do not experience side adverse effects while taking these medications however, they can occur. If they do, they tend to occur within the first few days or weeks after starting a new medicine or when the dosage is increased. They can disappear on their own, or a doctor may decide to change the medication or reduce the dosage.
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) which regulates stimulant medicines is classified as Schedule II drugs. This means they are at risk for abuse and dependency. However, when these medications are used as directed they can aid people with ADHD to concentrate, finish their tasks, and develop strong social skills. They can also make a difference in the lives of those who don't have ADHD.
It can take some time to determine the right medication and dosage for a particular person, particularly if that person has other medical conditions or takes other medications. Tell adhd medication for adults uk about all the medications you or your child is taking, including any over-the-counter supplements or beverages with caffeine. This will help them monitor the effectiveness of the medication and monitor for any potentially dangerous or uncomfortable side effects. It is essential to inform your doctor about any behavioural or emotional issues you or your child are experiencing. This will ensure that they achieve the best results from the medication.