ADHD Medication - Is it Right For Your Child?
ADHD medication can make a huge difference for the majority children. It's not for everyone. Parents must weigh the pros and cons with care.
The most common medication prescribed by doctors to treat ADHD is stimulants. They can help reduce the intensity of hyperactivity, fidgeting, interrupting, and other symptoms. They can also trigger side effects such as headaches and jitteriness.
Stimulants
Stimulants are substances that increase the activity of the central and peripheral nervous system. They boost the transmission of brain signals, which allows people to focus better and improve their ability to learn. They also boost productivity, alertness, and arousal, and reduce appetite. They can also trigger adverse effects, such as an irregular heartbeat or high blood pressure. Stimulants are prescribed to treat ADHD but they can also be used for a variety circumstances. People with ADHD may have issues at work, school and in their relationships. They are usually impulsive and have trouble planning ahead. Their mood can also influence their behaviour, such as when they are angry or upset.
The use of medication can help improve the ability of people with ADHD to plan, manage and complete tasks and control impulsive behaviors. It is not a cure for the condition, and a lot of people suffer from symptoms even after taking medication. Certain people suffer from underlying issues, like depression, anxiety or substance abuse which can cause symptoms. These issues may require other therapies to alleviate the symptoms of ADHD.
Methylphenidate is the active ingredient in all ADHD medications. Methylphenidate is a fast-acting drug because it is released into the system within a short period of time. It also has an immediate effect on mood. It is also referred to as Ritalin. However, the same medicine can be purchased under the brand name Ritalin LA. This medication is released over a longer period of time and may have a lasting effect.
Due to the possibility of abuse of stimulants, they are strictly controlled and can only by prescribed by a paediatrician or psychiatrist (and sometimes, GPs in certain circumstances). They are prescribed only as a last resort after all other options have been exhausted.
Some research suggests that physical activity can help alleviate ADHD symptoms by increasing levels of brain chemicals such as dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine. It is also crucial to get enough rest. Encourage your child or yourself to fall asleep at a reasonable time and to adhere to a routine, especially during mealtimes. Drinking less caffeine-rich drinks can help.
Amphetamines
Amphetamines trigger receptors in the brain, thereby increasing the activity of neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and norepinephrine. These are associated with cognitive functioning as well as motivation and movement. They were prescribed to treat various diseases, but they are now prescribed mainly for ADHD, obesity and Narcolepsy. They are also abused for recreational purposes to improve athletic performance and for feelings of euphoria and energy.
They are available in various types, ranging from a single capsule to extending-release tablets. The dosage is typically determined by age and weight, as well as medical background and the way in which the drug affects the patient. They are available for both children and adults. They are often paired with other medications to lessen side effects or help people to get through the day.
Stimulants are usually the first option for treating ADHD and are generally effective. It can take time to determine the appropriate dose because every person reacts differently to the medication. Your doctor will be monitoring the body reactions of your child or you until they determine the appropriate dose. They will continue to monitor the dosage over time to make sure it is effective.
Many experts believe that a combination treatment with medication and behavioral therapy is the best choice to treat ADHD. Some psychiatrists, however, claim that stimulants can cause serious side effects, such as cardiovascular problems and addiction, and psychiatric disorders such as bipolar disorder. They have been linked to tics and Tourette syndrome in certain people.
A new study referred to as"network meta-analysis "network meta-analysis" examined all the available evidence on the effectiveness and safety for ADHD in adults using a variety of drugs, ranging from methylphenidate to dextroamphetamine, and the atomoxetine. Researchers were able to examine the results of individual studies, even though they hadn't been directly tested against one another. Meta-analyses in the past have only examined certain groups of patients or one drug.
The study showed that lisdexamfetamine and methylphenidate were more effective than other medications in reducing ADHD symptoms. The study suggested that these two drugs be tested first, before switching to dexamfetamine standard if do not work. Other medications to look at are atomoxetine as well as Guanfacine.
Antidepressants
Certain ADHD medication side effects resemble the symptoms of anxiety or depression. If your adult or child is taking ADHD medication, and you are also noticing signs of anxiety or depression speak to your doctor right away. You may need to alter the medication or add something else to your treatment plan.
They are not usually prescribed for depression alone however they can be beneficial for people who suffer from both depression and ADHD. They reduce depression symptoms like fatigue and trouble in concentration, while also reducing ADHD symptoms such as hyperactivity and impulsivity.
Antidepressants aren't typically used to treat ADHD however, they may be beneficial if stimulants do not work or cause unacceptable adverse effects. The most popular antidepressant medicines are SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors), but tricyclic antidepressants, like nortriptyline and imipramine, are often used to treat ADHD. The Atypical antidepressant bupropion (Wellbutrin Zyban, wellbutrin) is also employed to treat ADHD in adults. It has been proven to reduce the inattention and impulsivity.
Non-stimulant ADHD drugs are also available. They have a lower abuse risk however, they can cause insomnia and agitation in some people. adhd medications can also cause adverse effects, like headaches and stomach upset. Doctors can prescribe long-acting or extended-release formulations of these drugs that last between six to 16 hours, and can slow the fluctuation of drug levels within the body. Many people supplement a long-acting or extended-release drug taken in the morning with an immediate-release dose taken at mid to late afternoon to cover periods of the day when first medication starts to wear off.
Therapy can help people overcome bad habits and develop new strategies for coping. BetterHelp is an online service that connects people with licensed certified, accredited therapists who specialize in a wide range of topics including ADHD depression, anxiety and relationships. It takes just one minute to take a test, and you'll be matched to a therapist in as little as 48 hours.
Other medicines
Many people suffering from ADHD take non-stimulant drugs to treat their symptoms. These medicines include atomoxetine, also known as Strattera and viloxazine known as Qelbree. These are antidepressants that work in theory by increasing the levels norepinephrine. This helps nerves in the brain transmit messages to one another which improves concentration and reduces impulsiveness. They are less likely to experience adverse effects such as anxiety or insomnia compared to stimulant medications.
The use of stimulants can trigger unpleasant side effects such as stomach upset and changes in blood pressure or heartbeat. They may also cause tics (spontaneous repeated vocal sounds or movements) more noticeable and irritating. The stimulant medications can also slow growth and cause weight loss in some children. These effects last for a short time and your doctor will prescribe the correct dosage for your child or you.
Your child must be on medication for 3 to 4 weeks before you will notice an improvement in their ADHD symptoms. The doctor will closely monitor your child or you and adjust the dosage if necessary. Treatment alone won't fix the problem, so it's important to talk with your child's health care provider about a behavioral therapy program as well.
Methylphenidate is the most well-known medication used to treat ADHD however there are other types of stimulant medicine. Adderall, Ritalin and other short-acting methylphenidate medications release the medication into your system quickly. They should be taken several times throughout the every day. Long-acting methylphenidate medications like Evekeo and Ritalin SR release the medication slowly throughout the day. They are available in tablets that can be swallowed, crushed, as liquids, and as quick-dissolve tablets that dissolve in the mouth (Evekeo ODT). These two types of methylphenidate while similar to amphetamines are generally regarded as safer than amphetamines for young people. They are also less likely to cause heart issues and addiction. Amphetamines can be a bit stronger than methylphenidate and may last for up to 16 hours, but they're more likely to lead to heart issues.