ADHD Medication - Choosing the Right One
The use of medication is an essential component of ADHD treatment. Different medications affect different people in a different way, and finding the right one can take a long time.
Stimulants raise levels of brain chemicals that help in focusing and controlling impulses. They can also cause side effects such as shaky fingers, stomach upset, and an increased heart rate.
Stimulants
Stimulants are medicines that increase -- or "stimulate" the processes and activities within the brain. They can help improve focus, boost energy and alertness, and increase concentration. They can also raise blood pressure and heart rate.
They may cause side effects, like decreased appetite and difficulty sleeping however they're generally safe long-term. They are usually taken twice or three times a each day, based on the dosage. They can come in chewable, liquid or pills. Some are short-acting and last only a few minutes. Others are longer-acting, remaining in the body for up to 16 hours.
ADHD patients often have trouble paying attention and following directions. They can also have trouble controlling their emotions and impulses. This can affect their school, work, and social life. ADHD can be treated in various ways. Medications are often the first option for adults suffering from ADHD. There are a variety of FDA approved drugs for treating the condition. These include stimulants as well as non-stimulants.
The most popular medications used to treat ADHD are methylphenidate (Ritalin), dextroamphetamine and dextroamphetamine salts (Adderall) and Atomoxetine (Strattera). These medications act on certain brain chemicals called dopamine and norepinephrine. They're known to boost attention and reduce the impulsivity, hyperactivity, and restlessness.
Certain people with ADHD may be tempted misuse stimulants that are sometimes prescribed to others or sold illegally. Utilizing stimulants in the wrong way can lead to health issues, such as addiction. It can also increase a person's likelihood of suffering from anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions.
There are other medicines to treat ADHD that do not rely on the same chemicals that are stimulants, like the clonidine, guanfacine and atomoxetine. These drugs can be helpful for people who are not able to take stimulant medications or have an illness that makes these medications too strong. These drugs require longer time to work but they can increase the ability of a person to manage their emotions and focus.
Before you decide to take medication to treat ADHD, it's important that you speak with your doctor. Some people are unable to find a medication that will work for them. They can reduce their symptoms by making lifestyle changes and behavior therapy. Medicines can interact with other drugs and therefore it is crucial to let your doctor know about any medications you or your child is taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.
Alcohol and other drugs that stimulate the nervous system should be avoided by people who suffer from ADHD who are taking stimulant ADHD medication. This includes some available over-the-counter cough and cold medications and some diet supplements and a few over the counter drugs that can make one anxious. Alcohol can be amplified by stimulant ADHD medications. Even a small amount of alcohol can cause feeling of intoxication much faster than if you didn't take the medication. Before taking medication for adhd adults , people with depression or other mood disorders ought to consult their physician. They may have to alter the dosage or stop taking the medication. You should also get up earlier to sleep because stimulant ADHD medication can make it difficult to fall asleep.