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ADHD Stimulant Medication
Many people suffering from ADHD discover that medication helps them control symptoms and improves their performance.
Stimulants boost certain brain chemicals that aid in the communication between nerve cells. They can also reduce impulsiveness and aggression.
These drugs are available in various forms for children and adults (e.g. tablets, liquids). It can take some time to determine the appropriate dosage for each person.
Types
Stimulant drugs like methylphenidate or amphetamine help ease ADHD symptoms in 70% to 80% of kids and adults (Spencer et al 2005). These drugs seem to increase the levels of two brain chemicals, norepinephrine and dopamine. These drugs help to reduce the primary symptoms of the disorder, like fidgeting and impulsivity, and problems with paying attention. The drugs also help people accomplish tasks and improve their social skills. In general, the drugs work best when employed as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that incorporates behavior therapy and skills training.
Doctors cannot know which drug is the best for a particular person, so they start by trying out different doses to find the one that works. It could take several weeks for medicines to achieve their maximum effectiveness. They may need to be adjusted in time depending on how the patient responds and side effects. The goal is to find the lowest dosage that can help a person manage their ADHD symptoms effectively.
The kinds of stimulant medications available include immediate-release methylphenidate, amphetamine, intermediate release atomoxetine and long-acting dexamphetamine and guanfacine. Medication can be taken in capsule, liquid, or chewable tablet form. Children who have trouble swallowing tablets or pills can sprinkle the beads onto food to take the three extended-release drugs.
These medicines can cause an increase in appetite or sleepiness, but they tend to improve after regular use. Sleepiness can be a consequence of these drugs however, doctors try to avoid giving them prior to time of sleep. Insomnia caused by methylphenidate or amphetamine is usually more severe in teenagers and preteens, so parents should watch for warning signs.
Patients with heart issues or other health issues should discuss the use of these medications with a doctor. They can trigger a sudden increase in blood pressure or heart rate, and they shouldn't be taken by those with a history of substance abuse or psychiatric disorders.
Teenagers who use stimulant drugs to lose weight or gain weight are at risk of abusing them. Siu and Smith warn that this is a serious issue and puts teens at risk of a heart-related death. It is important to educate children and teens about the dangers of taking prescriptions from another or sharing their own with their friends, and also to talk with a doctor about the possibility of abuse.
Dosage
The stimulant medication is typically consumed in the form pills. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dosage based on your medical conditions, symptoms, other medications and side effects. Many people find that finding the right dosage is a trial-and-error procedure, so being open with your doctor is essential.
A common type of ADHD stimulant is methylphenidates (MPH). They are available in liquid, chewable tablets, or chewable forms and can be prescribed as short or long acting. Long-acting formulations take longer to take effect, but they can last up to eight hours. The shorter-acting formulations provide more effect, but they wear off faster. Typically, doctors begin patients on a small dose and gradually increase the dose until they see improvements in their symptoms.
Certain adults require more than one stimulant medication to treat their symptoms. Based on the person, the medication might need to be taken in conjunction with other treatments, for instance behavior therapy.
Stimulants have been proven to decrease symptoms of ADHD in 70 to 80% of adults and children. These medications can reduce hyperactivity, interruptions the impulsive, fidgeting and fidgeting behaviors. They also aid people to concentrate and finish tasks. inattentive adhd medication can improve communication and overall performance.
The FDA has approved a number of amphetamines and methylphenidates as a treatment of ADHD. These drugs are generally well tolerated and are effective. It is crucial to remember that these drugs can be misused and abused. They are classified by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration as Schedule II controlled drugs.
Treatments for mood disorders or depression can be utilized in conjunction with stimulant medications. These medications increase the levels of norepinephrine - an neurotransmitter that assists people to control their behavior and concentrate. They can boost attention and reduce the impulsivity of some people with ADHD. However they aren't as effective as stimulants in decreasing hyperactivity and inattention.
Certain people who take these medications experience a decrease in energy or feel being "on edge." This is known as the crash effect. It can lead to depression, extreme hunger, and other unpleasant adverse effects. It can also occur when coming down off a short-acting stimulant, especially if the person hasn't been using it for a while or was taking high doses.
Side effects
Stimulant medication increases the levels of dopamine in the brain. This improves concentration and impulse control. The most commonly used stimulants for ADHD are methylphenidates or amphetamines. These medications include Ritalin Concerta Focalin Adderall. They are available in various forms and doses, from pills to liquids. A large number of adults and children take these drugs to manage their symptoms, in addition to other treatments like therapy, skills training and lifestyle changes.
These medications may cause side effects, including a decreased appetite or trouble sleeping. If you or your child suffer from these side effects, you may require medication later in the day, eat more during the day, or incorporate snacks. You should also avoid drinking beverages with caffeine. These effects usually go away within some weeks as the body adjusts to the medicine, and it is important to follow the doctor's recommendations regarding dosage and frequency.
Medications are not the only treatment for ADHD but they can reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity in 70% to 80 percent of those suffering from the condition. They can help you to get better sleep, concentrate on work and schoolwork, and improve relationships. Your doctor will examine your symptoms, discuss the benefits and risks of medication, and monitor your response to the drug.
Stimulants are categorized as controlled substances, meaning they have a high chance of abuse and addiction. When taken as prescribed by a doctor stimulants aren't addictive. People who don't have ADHD frequently use these drugs to increase their alertness or to curb their appetites in order to lose weight, or feel a "high." If taken for medical reasons, stimulant medicines are extremely safe and effective.
Nonstimulants are drugs that do not boost the levels of dopamine or norepinephrine in the body. They generally take longer to get started, but they can improve your ability to pay attention and control impulses. They are less likely than stimulants to be abused. However, they may cause adverse effects, such as less appetite and difficulty sleeping. Examples of non-stimulant medications include Strattera (atomoxetine), Qelbree (viloxazine) and Intuniv (guanfacine). Antidepressants can be used alone or in combination with stimulants to treat ADHD symptoms.
Overdose
Stimulant medications have a potential to be misused or abused even when they're prescribed to serve a legitimate medical need. Some people who don't suffer from ADHD abuse these medications to increase their alertness or to reduce their appetite to lose weight. Others may abuse them simply to feel "high." People with ADHD who receive the proper treatment from a doctor aren't likely to develop addictions to these medications, however these medications do have the potential of causing overdose and death.
The consumption of prescription stimulants can cause serious harm. This is usually taken by mouth, but it could also occur when the medications are crushed, mixed with water and then snorted or injected. According to research from U.S. Poison Centers these harms are most prevalent among teenagers who are using their own prescription stimulant or medication prescribed by someone else that is not mentioned on the prescriptions.
Many children mistakenly follow their parents or older siblings' prescriptions of a stimulant to feel more alert or stay up later to study for school tests or to feel high. These are usually accidents however they can result in serious heart issues or poisoning. Children may steal tablets from their relatives or friends who have prescriptions. The pills are especially risky for children who have heart problems or other health issues that make them more sensitive to their adverse effects.
These medications can also be purchased without a prescription from drug dealers or illegal sellers online. They could contain fake pills which look like prescription stimulants, but they contain dangerous illegal substances. These drugs also are a danger when taken together with alcohol or other controlled substances such as opioids.
It is recommended that patients read the Medication Guide that will be provided with their filled prescription(s) to learn about the medication including any warnings and possible adverse reactions. It will also explain how to dispose of unused prescriptions properly and that includes taking them back to a pharmacist or another authorized disposal site or facility. Also, encourage them to call FDA's MedWatch hotline should they have concerns or questions about their medicines or any adverse side effects they experience.