ADHD Medications
The role of medications is crucial in the management of ADHD symptoms. They regulate neurotransmitters in the brain, thereby reducing symptoms.
Stimulants, like methylphenidate (Ritalin) or amphetamines (Adderall, Eveko, Daytrana) are the most common medications used to treat ADHD. They increase dopamine and improve attention and focus.
types of adhd medication who use stimulants suffer side effects such as stomach upset and changes in blood pressure, heart rate and tics.
Stimulants
Stimulants are medications that enhance the way your brain functions, making you more alert and active. When taken in the prescribed manner stimulants can improve ADHD symptoms. However, each person will respond differently and experience different side effects. If your child is taking stimulants, it is important to take them to the doctor on a regular basis for checks and adjustments to the dosage.
The most commonly used stimulants for ADHD are methylphenidates, which include Ritalin and generic versions of it. Amphetamines such as Adderall or Dexedrine have a greater impact than methylphenidates. These medicines can raise your or your child's heart rate, and may cause addiction in some people. They can cause insomnia and increase blood pressure, which is the reason these medications are not recommended for those who have a history of heart disease.
Side effects of stimulants can include sleep problems as well as jitters, appetite suppression headaches, as well as behavioral relapse (a sudden recurrence of symptoms after the medication has worn off). They can cause psychiatric disorders, such as aggression, hostility and depression. They don't cause habit-forming doses prescribed to treat ADHD, but they are abused particularly by teenagers and young adults who use them as aids to study or to boost their energy levels.
Some people with ADHD respond well to methylphenidate or amphetamines with an extended release. Another brand new medication, lisdexamfetamine, is also effective. These drugs release the medication slowly over a prolonged period of time. This helps avoid the fluctuations caused by fluctuating levels of the medication in your body, and reduces the risk of rebound effects when ADHD symptoms return after the drug has been used up.
Other medications are also available to treat ADHD. They do not contain stimulants, and have lower rates of addiction and abuse. They are usually more efficient in treating ADHD in people without a psychiatric condition however, they do have some side effects that can be difficult to manage for children in school or in social settings.
If your child is prescribed ADHD medication It is crucial that they are taken every day at the same time. Some kids may need reminders from a teacher or parents, while some require reminders written in their calendar. It could take a bit of trial and error to determine the right dosage and medication that is most suitable for your child. Additionally, they should be consulted by their doctor on a regular basis to assess how well the medication is effective. Children suffering from ADHD should also be taught coping skills to deal with their symptoms, like managing their time and planning. They must also be taught to solicit help when needed. Children with ADHD need therapy to help them learn the skills needed to be successful in school and throughout life. Insurance typically covers these treatments. Getting the right treatment can make a big difference in the quality of life.