ADHD Medications - Add ADHD Stimulants to Your Treatments
The stimulants increase brain chemicals that regulate behavior. Doctors prescribe stimulants to treat ADHD symptoms. They may also be used to treat symptoms of depression or anxiety.
Children and teens who do not take their ADHD medications often have worse symptoms. That's why they need to understand the importance of following their doctors and their instructions.
Stimulants
The most common medication used by healthcare professionals to treat ADHD in adults and children is stimulants. They work by increasing levels of certain chemicals (neurotransmitters) in the brain, like dopamine and norepinephrine. This improves focus and decreases impulsive behavior. About 90% of ADHD sufferers who are taking the right dosage have fewer ADHD symptoms.
The majority of stimulants belong to the methylphenidate or amphetamine drug classes and are FDA approved to treat ADHD. They are considered to be the first-line treatment for the disorder due to years of research that has demonstrated high response rates as well as a high degree of tolerability and security across the lifespan as well as a low incidence of adverse reactions. They are also not habit-forming and there isn't any evidence to suggest they cause substance use disorder. However, if they are used in higher-than-prescribed amounts, or by people who don't have ADHD, they can lead to serious side effects and even cause brain changes.
The drugs are available in a variety of types or formulations. The most commonly used form of stimulant used to treat ADHD is methylphenidate pills. Amphetamines, atomoxetine and amphetamines are also available.
Some long-acting versions of these drugs last for up to 16 hours, and can reduce the requirement for an evening or afternoon dose. They can also help to keep from the rapid changes in blood pressure and heart rates that can occur with shorter-acting stimulants. adhd medications for adults who use these drugs may experience what is called a "crash" effect after they stop taking the medication which usually results in a abrupt decrease in energy that may be difficult to deal with.
The use of these drugs can trigger other adverse effects, such as upset stomach, appetite suppression sleep issues dry mouth, and mood changes. In rare cases, stimulants can cause tics to worsen. For example, some children and adolescents who are taking ADHD medication experience increased eye blinking or throat clearing. They are usually minor and will go away when the body adjusts to the medication. In rare cases, ADHD medications can delay growth in children and cause them to be shorter than their peers.
Non-stimulant medicines are more difficult to use but they don't cause the same bursts in energy. They can also increase focus, attention, and control of impulses over time. They're not controlled substances, so they are less likely to be misused or cause drug abuse disorders, however some people may find they could cause the "crash" or rebound effect if they suddenly stop taking these medications.
Due to the complexity of ADHD healthcare professionals prescribe multiple medications and track the body's responses to ensure that patients are receiving the correct dose. This is especially important when the healthcare professional is treating a comorbid disorder like depression or anxiety. For this reason, it's crucial for anyone suffering from ADHD to visit a psychiatrist on a regular basis until they find the appropriate combination of medication and dosage. Talkiatry, an online psychiatry service that matches you with a doctor within a matter of days and can assist you in finding a psychiatrist who can assess your mental health. They can also assist you in deciding whether you should take ADHD medication.
