ADHD Medication
Medication is often part of an ADHD treatment program. The two most common stimulant medications are dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate. Each of these has many brand names and has a different chemical makeup.
Stimulants increase brain chemicals that help transmit messages between neurons. These are usually the first drugs that healthcare professionals test for adults suffering from ADHD.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the first drugs that doctors prescribe for ADHD. They help by increasing the levels of certain brain chemicals, such as norepinephrine and dopamine. These aid in improving focus, reduce impulsive behavior, and promote calmness. Doctors often use amphetamines (including methylphenidate) or atomoxetine, which is in a class of antidepressants known as selective norepinephrine receptor inhibitors for treating ADHD. Although serious heart problems are rare, doctors may closely monitor patients with heart issues when they take stimulants.
ADHD is usually treated efficiently with stimulant medication especially for adolescents and children. These drugs increase brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine, which helps them concentrate and learn. These drugs also promote energy and arousal. Studies have demonstrated that when taken as directed they can significantly enhance school performance. Many experts are worried that students who are taking stimulants for a long time might develop a tolerance and require higher doses. They may also trigger adverse side effects, like changes in appetite, difficulty sleeping, and anxiety or depression.
Doctors who prescribe ADHD medication will usually start with a low dosage and gradually increase it over a period of several weeks. They will want parents and you to monitor the advantages and adverse effects of the medication. If the medication doesn't appear to be working, or causes unwanted side effects that you're not able to deal with, your doctor may try another medicine.
The majority of kids and adults who take stimulant medications have at least a few side effects. The majority of them are mild and disappear after a few days or weeks as the body gets used to the medication. Some of the most common side effects include weight loss, trouble sleeping, and a high heart rate.
Certain studies have revealed that people who take stimulant medications for ADHD are more prone to tics. These are repetitive movements or noises like eye blinking or throat clearing. But, these medications do not cause tics, they simply make them more obvious. add adhd medications Iampsychiatry can cause changes in mood or voice, headaches, stomach upset and occasionally an increase or decrease in heart rate or blood pressure.
A few nonstimulant medications--including Strattera (atomoxetine) and Qelbree (viloxazine)--have been approved by the FDA to treat ADHD. These drugs perform differently than stimulants. They boost the levels of norepinephrine - a brain chemical that helps to regulate the flow of thoughts and attention. They can also reduce depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder symptoms. They are less prone to side effects than stimulants, but they aren't as effective at treating ADHD symptoms. If you are also suffering from bipolar disorder or depression your doctor may recommend that you try these drugs. They may also suggest psychosocial therapy to help you manage the symptoms of ADHD and improve your overall quality of life.