The 10 Most Scariest Things About Medication For ADHD

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Medication For ADHD - What Are the Side Effects?

Many people who suffer from ADHD notice a decrease in symptoms when taking medication. But each person reacts differently to various drugs, and side effects can be troublesome.

Methylphenidate is part of a group of medications called stimulants. It works by increasing levels of a chemical in the brain that assists in controlling the attention span and behavior.

Stimulant medication

Stimulant medications enhance concentration and attention in 70% to 80% of adults and children who use them. They work by altering neurotransmitters such as norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. They typically cause an initial increase in blood pressure and heart rate that lasts for several hours. Many experts recommend that you start low and gradually increase the dosage over several weeks.

Stimant medication is taken by mouth, usually every day, either once or twice. They are generally available in short- and long-acting formulas. Short-acting stimulants are peaking within a couple of hours, and must be taken two times a day. Long-acting stimulating drugs last for 8 to 12 hours and are taken only every week.

These medications can trigger unwanted adverse side effects like insomnia, loss of appetite and nausea. Some people might become irritable or moody. However, these effects usually diminish over time and can be controlled by adjusting the dosage. In some instances stimulants can cause changes in personality, like being withdrawn, unfocused or more rigid and obsessive. They can also increase the risk of developing other mental disorders, such as depression and mania.

Most stimulants are controlled substances that require a prescription to be obtained. They are frequently misused by adults and teens to achieve performance enhancement, and they could cause addiction if taken in a way that is not prescribed. Because of these risks, doctors carefully consider the need for stimulant medications and monitor the dosage and side-effects.

Non-stimulant medicines

There are many non-stimulant ADHD medications that are available, and the one that is most effective depends on the individual. These prescription medications don't affect the same brain chemicals that stimulants do. Non-stimulants are less likely to cause side effects but can take longer to kick in and last only for 24 hours. The majority of these drugs operate by increasing the amount of norepinephrine in the brain. This includes antidepressants, such as bupropion (Wellbutrin), nortriptyline, and Pamelor.

Psychotherapy

Talk therapy can help the patient how to deal with the symptoms and learn new coping techniques such as stress management or impulsivity control. BetterHelp is a service that offers online therapy connects people with licensed therapists who specialize in treating ADHD and other mental conditions. You can be matched with a therapist within 48 hours after taking a free online assessment. Stimulant and non-stimulant medication can help those with ADHD improve their ability to concentrate and reduce impulsivity, however they do not check here address the underlying causes of the disorder. In addition to talk therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness-based therapies can teach someone strategies to manage their the impulsive behavior of their children and increase their ability to manage their emotions. These techniques can be learned through an ADHD coach or through practice with a qualified therapist. Parents and caregivers can be taught these techniques to help their child or adult who suffers from ADHD. In certain situations, a combination between medication and talk therapy may be the most effective approach.