Medications For Adhd
The treatment of adhd is a popular treatment option for both adults and kids. They help control symptoms and can enhance school performance and interpersonal relationships.
Medications are available in two main categories: stimulants and non-stimulants. Stimulantslike amphetamine and methylphenidate, increase levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters.
Stimulants
Stimulants are drugs for adhd that raise brain levels of norepinephrine and dopamine. These medications can aid in making your brain function more effectively and reduce symptoms like hyperactivity, impulsivity and inattentiveness.
They are the most widely used medication to treat ADHD in children and adults. They have a good safety record and are available in generic form which means they're generally cheaper.
Amphetamines as well as methylphenidates are the main stimulants for ADHD. Both stimulants are effective, but methylphenidates are more effective for ADHD adolescents and children.
Nonstimulants can also be used to treat ADHD. These include atomoxetine (brandname Strattera) or guanfacine. These drugs are metabolized in your liver and can cause negative side effects like weight loss or changes in appetite.
They may not function as effectively or have the same adverse side effects as stimulants, which is why they're not the most preferred choice of treatment for the majority of people suffering from ADHD. Antidepressants are an alternative. They only target serotonin and don't affect norepinephrine or dopamine.
Certain children and adults may become addicted to stimulants, especially if they're prescribed them in the long run. But the majority of people treated for ADHD don't develop a drug use disorder.
Discussing with your doctor about abuse of stimulant medications is the best way to avoid it. Also, be aware about how to safely utilize these medications. iampsychiatry will likely follow you closely to ensure that you're taking the medication as directed.
A fixed time for the day is another way to avoid addiction. ADHD sufferers usually find it easier to stick to a schedule when they know what they can expect.
You can also inquire with your doctor about other treatments that may be helpful for your child with ADHD like exercise or dietary modifications. They'll go over the advantages and drawbacks to each option and suggest the best combination of treatments for your child.
Certain stimulants may cause side effects, such as drowsiness nausea, dizziness and stomach upset. These effects can cause discomfort and could affect your child's daily activities. These side effects should be promptly reported to your doctor.
There are two types of ADHD stimulants: short-acting and long-acting. The stimulant that is short-acting works in less time and has fewer side effects. The long-acting kind takes 6 to 12 hours to become efficient.
While the long-acting medicine is more expensive than its shorter-acting counterpart, it's more secure and less likely that you will experience side effects or breakthrough symptoms. Since it's only used once per day it's much easier to take a drug that has a longer acting.
It's important to keep in mind that most of these effects will go away within 2 to 3 weeks of using the medication. However, should you experience several of them, you may consult your doctor about adjusting your dosage or switching medications.
These medications should be taken with caution. This is due to the fact that they increase heart rate and trigger the feeling of high.