10 Things Everybody Has To Say About Medication For ADHD

Medication For ADHD – What Are the Side Effects? Many people with ADHD have their symptoms improved by taking medication. adhd medication side effects to drugs is different, and side effects can be a problem. Methylphenidate is part of a group of drugs referred to as stimulants. It is a stimulant that increases levels of a substance in the brain that helps control the behavior and attention. Stimulant medication Stimulant medication improves concentration and attention for 70% to 80% of children and adults who use it. They alter the activity of key neurotransmitters in the brain, like dopamine and norepinephrine. Typically, they cause an initial increase in heart rate and blood pressure that lasts for a few hours. Many experts recommend that you begin with a low dose and gradually increase the dose over a period of time. Stimant medications are taken orally, usually once or twice a day. The majority are available in long- and short-acting formulas. Short-acting stimulants are most effective within a couple of hours and must be taken 2-3 times a day; long-acting stimulants last 8-12 hours and are taken once per day. These medications can cause undesirable side effects, such as insomnia, nausea, and loss of appetite. They can also make people moody or angry however these effects typically disappear over time and are usually controlled by adjusting the dosage. In certain instances, stimulants can change your personality. You could become more introverted or irritable, or even more obsessive and rigid. They can also increase the risk of developing other psychiatric issues, such as depression and mania. Most stimulants are controlled substances and require prescriptions to be obtained. Adults and adolescents abuse these substances to boost performance. They can develop addiction when they are not taken in the correct manner or as directed. Because of these risks, doctors carefully evaluate the need for stimulant medication and be aware of the dosage and any adverse effects. Non-stimulant medications There are a myriad of non-stimulant ADHD medications, and the one that is most appropriate for you is based on your personal requirements. These are prescription medicines however they don't act on the same brain chemicals as stimulants. Non-stimulants are less likely to cause side effects but can take longer to work and last only for 24 hours. Most of these drugs operate by increasing the amount of norepinephrine in the brain. This includes antidepressants like bupropion (Wellbutrin) nortriptyline and Pamelor. Psychotherapy Talk therapy can help a person learn how to cope with symptoms and learn new coping skills that include managing stress and impulsivity. BetterHelp, an online therapy service connects people with licensed therapists who are trained to treat ADHD and other mental health conditions. Get a free assessment and you'll be connected with a therapist in as little as 48 hours. Non-stimulant or stimulant medications can help those with ADHD reduce their impulsivity and increase their ability of focus however, they do not solve the root cause. Cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness can be used in conjunction with talk therapy to teach people how to manage their impulse-driven behavior. These methods can be learned through an ADHD coach or by experimenting with a trained therapist. Parents and caregivers can learn these techniques to help their child or adult suffering from ADHD. In some cases the combination of medication and talk therapy is the most effective approach.