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ADHD Medications - Add ADHD Stimulants to Your Treatments
Stimulants increase levels of brain chemicals that control behavior. Doctors prescribe stimulants to treat ADHD symptoms. They may also include them in treatment for depression or anxiety.
Children and teens who don't take their ADHD medication often experience worse symptoms. That's why they need to understand the importance of following their doctors the instructions of their doctor.
Stimulants
The most frequently used medication by healthcare providers to treat ADHD in adults and children is stimulants. They work by increasing the levels of certain chemicals (neurotransmitters) in the brain, like dopamine and norepinephrine. This aids in concentration and decreases impulsive behavior. Around 80% of people who suffer from ADHD who take the correct dose experience fewer symptoms.
The stimulants approved by FDA are those belonging to amphetamine and methylphenidate drug class. They are considered the first-line treatment for the disorder because of years of research that has demonstrated high response rates as well as a high degree of tolerability and security throughout the life span as well as a low incidence of adverse effects. They are also non-habit-forming, and t here isn't any evidence to suggest that 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 forms or formulations. The most commonly used form of stimulant used to treat ADHD is methylphenidate pills. Amphetamines, atomoxetine, and amphetamines are also available.
Some of the long-acting ones last for as long as 16 hours and can reduce the need for a daily dose in the afternoon. They also can help prevent the rapid change in blood pressure and heart rate that could occur when taking shorter-acting stimulants. Some people who use these medications might experience what's known as a "crash" effect when they stop taking the medication which typically involves a very sharp decrease in energy and can be difficult to cope with.
These medications can cause other adverse effects, such as nausea suppression, stomach upset sleep issues, dry mouth and some mood changes. In rare cases, stimulants may worsen tics. For example certain adolescents and children taking ADHD medication have increased eye blinking or throat clearing. These symptoms are usually mild, and disappear after the body has adjusted to the medication. In rare cases, ADHD medications can delay growth in children and result in them being shorter than their peers.
Non-stimulant medicines take longer to work but they don't generate the same surges of energy. They also can increase focus, attention, and impulse control over time. Since they aren't controlled substances, they are less likely to be misused or cause substance abuse disorders. However, some individuals may be affected by a "crash" or rebound effect, after they stop using these medications.
Because ADHD can be complicated, healthcare providers usually prescribe multiple medications and track the body's reactions to make sure they are receiving the correct amount. This is especially important if the healthcare provider is treating a comorbid condition such as anxiety or depression. It is essential that someone suffering from ADHD visits a psychiatrist regularly until they find the right dosage and combination of medications. If you're in search of a psychiatrist who will assess your mental health and assist you in deciding whether to add ADHD medications, Talkiatry is an online psychiatry practice that will connect you with a provider within a matter of days.
