A Relevant Rant About ADHD Medication
ADHD Medications Certain medications can be beneficial to people with ADHD, in addition to therapy and counseling. These medications help balance and increase levels of brain chemicals which improve attention and reduce hyperactivity. Each person responds differently to medicine, so it may take some time to locate the most suitable one. Your doctor will observe how the medicine works and assist you in establishing a schedule that suits your requirements. Stimulants Certain medications that alter brain chemicals that are involved in ADHD can improve concentration, focus, and impulse control. Doctors prescribe stimulants as well as nonstimulants. The type of medicine that's right for your child or you will depend on your medical history and the severity of your symptoms. The most popular ADHD treatment is stimulants. They increase dopamine levels in the brain, which helps increase attention and decreases impulse control and hyperactivity. They are available in short- and longer-acting versions. managing adhd without medication -acting stimulants last for just a few hours, while long-acting ones remain in your body all day. Adults suffering from ADHD may also benefit from stimulant medications. Most doctors recommend starting with a lower dose and working up to the appropriate amount. It may take a while to determine the appropriate dose for you or your child. You may also have to schedule regular follow-up appointments with your physician to adjust your dosage. Side effects of stimulant medications are usually minimal and disappear after a few weeks. They can result in a decreased appetite, sleep problems and a rise in blood pressure or heart rate. Your doctor will discuss with you the possibility of any side effects if you or your child has a medical condition which increases this risk. In certain instances, stimulants taken in high doses can cause sudden spikes in heart palpitations, blood pressure or even seizures. These medications are not recommended for people who have a prior or family history of heart disease, or drug abuse. The stimulants can also worsen certain mental health conditions, like depression and bipolar disorder and anxiety, so it's important to consult your physician about whether they're right for you or your child. Non-stimulant ADHD medications are less likely to trigger serious side effects and are typically considered a second-line treatment for people who aren't responsive to stimulants. They can include the atomoxetine (Strattera), clonidine (Kapvay) or Guanfacine (Intuniv). They can also be prescribed “off-label” to treat other disorders, like depression or anxiety. Drisperidone and methylphenidate are two of the most commonly prescribed drugs to treat ADHD. Both are available as tablets, liquids, or capsules. Tablets are usually taken once or twice daily by mouth. Recommended Internet site or your child may wear tablets with extended-release (Intuniv or IntunivXR) which contain atomoxetine or guanfacine. These pills are intended to be worn for a few weeks at a time before they need to be replaced. All ADHD medications carry some risk, and there is always the chance that they won't be effective or cause adverse side effects. For a large number of people, particularly teens and children the risks are greater than the benefits. The ability to focus, concentrate and control impulses is an important advantage for many people.