10 Simple Ways To Figure Out Your Medication For ADHD

Medication For ADHD - What Are the Side Effects?

Many people with ADHD find their symptoms improve by taking medication. Every person's reaction is different, and the side effects can be problematic.

Methylphenidate is part of a group of medications called stimulants. It works by increasing levels of a substance in the brain that helps control the attention span and behavior.

Stimulant medications

Stimulant medications improve attention and concentration for 70 to 80% children and adults who take it. They alter the activity of neurotransmitters that are essential in the brain, such as dopamine and norepinephrine. They usually cause an initial rise in blood pressure and heart rate that lasts for several hours. Because of this, experts advise that people start low and build up to the recommended dosage over a period of weeks.

Stimant medications are typically taken orally, one or twice daily. Most are available in both long- and short-acting formulas. Short-acting stimulants are peaking in a few hours, and should be taken twice daily. Long-acting stimulants last between 8 and 12 hours, and are only taken every week.

These drugs may cause unwanted side effects, such as insomnia, nausea 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 changing the dosage. In some instances stimulants can cause changes in personality, for example being withdrawn, unfocused or more rigid and obsessive. They can also increase the risk of other psychiatric issues, like mania and depression.

The majority of stimulants are controlled substances and require prescriptions to be obtained. Adolescents and adults misuse them to enhance performance. They can become addicted when they aren't used properly or as prescribed. Because of these risks doctors carefully consider the need for stimulant medication and monitor the dosage and side-effects.

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There are many non-stimulant ADHD medications, and the best one depends on the person. These are prescription medicines however they don't act on the same brain chemicals as stimulants. Non-stimulants are less likely to cause negative side effects, however they may take longer to effect and last only for a period of 24 hours. Most of these drugs operate by increasing the amount of norepinephrine in the brain. This includes antidepressants such as bupropion (Wellbutrin) nortriptyline and Pamelor.

Psychotherapy

Talk therapy can help a person how to cope with symptoms, and develop new coping strategies, like controlling impulsivity or stress. BetterHelp is a company that offers therapy online connects people with licensed therapists trained in treating ADHD and other mental illnesses. Take a free assessment and get connected with a therapist in less than 48 hours. Stimulant and non-stimulant medication can help people with ADHD improve their ability to focus and reduce impulsivity, however they do not address the underlying causes of the disorder. Cognitive mindfulness and behavioral therapy can be utilized in conjunction with talk therapy to teach people how to manage their impulse-driven behavior. These techniques can be taught by an ADHD coach or practiced with a certified therapist. Parents and caregivers can learn these techniques so they can assist their child or adult who suffers from ADHD. In some instances it is recommended to combine medication and therapy is the most effective approach.