Medication For ADHD - What Are the Side Effects?

Many people suffering from ADHD have a decrease in symptoms when they use medication For odd and Adhd. Every person's reaction to medication is different, and the side effects can be problematic.

Methylphenidate is part of a group of drugs known as stimulants. It works by increasing levels of a substance in the brain that assists in controlling attention and behavior.

Stimulant medications

Stimulant medication can improve concentration and attention for 70% to 80% children and adults that use it. They alter neurotransmitters, such as norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. They typically cause an initial increase in blood pressure and heart rate which lasts for a long time. This is why many experts recommend that people start with a lower dose and increase it to the recommended dosage over a period of weeks.

Stimant medication is administered by mouth, usually at least once or twice per day. There are both short-acting and long-acting versions of most stimulants. Short-acting stimulating drugs peak within a few hours and should be taken twice a day. Long-acting stimulants last between 8 and 12 hours, and are taken only every week.

These drugs can trigger unwanted side effects, including nausea, insomnia and loss of appetite. Some people may become irritable or moody. However the effects typically disappear over time and are able to be controlled by altering the dosage. In some cases stimulants can trigger changes in personality, for example being withdrawn, unfocused or becoming more rigid and obsessive. They can also increase the risk of other mental disorders, like depression and mania.

The majority of stimulants are controlled substances and require the prescription of a doctor. They are often misused by adolescents and adults for the purpose of performance enhancement, and can result in addiction if used in a way that is not prescribed. Because of the risks, doctors are very careful to evaluate the need for stimulant medication and to monitor the dosage and adverse effects closely.

Non-stimulant medication

There are a variety of non-stimulant adhd medication guanfacine medications available, and which one is most suitable for you is determined by your individual requirements. These prescription medications used for adhd do not affect the same brain chemicals that stimulants do. Non-stimulants are less likely to cause adverse effects, but they can take longer to kick in and last for only 24 hours. Most of these drugs are able to increase the levels of norepinephrine in the brain. This includes antidepressants like bupropion (Wellbutrin) nortriptyline and Pamelor.

Psychotherapy

Therapy can teach a person how to cope with the symptoms and learn new coping techniques such as managing stress or controlling impulsivity. BetterHelp, a service that provides online therapy connects clients with licensed therapists trained in treating ADHD and other mental disorders. Take a free assessment and be an appointment with a therapist within as little as 48 hours. Stimulant and non-stimulant medication can help those with best adhd medication for adults with anxiety improve their ability to focus and reduce impulsivity, however they do not address the underlying causes of the disorder. In addition to talking therapy, cognitive behavior therapy and mindfulness-based treatments can teach people strategies to manage their an impulsive personality and improve their ability to manage their emotions. These techniques can be taught by an ADHD coach or practiced with a trained therapist. They can be taught to parents and caregivers to assist the child or adult with ADHD in these areas. In some cases it is suggested to combine medication and therapy could be the most effective approach.