Medication For ADHD - What Are the Side Effects?
Many people who suffer from ADHD find their symptoms improve by taking medication. Every person's reaction to medication is different, and side effects can be problematic.
Methylphenidate is a stimulant. It works by raising levels of a chemical in the brain that assists in controlling the behavior and attention.
Stimulant medication
Stimulant medication improves attention and concentration for 70 to 80% of children and adults that use it. They work by altering the activity of key neurotransmitters in the brain, such as dopamine and norepinephrine. They typically cause an initial increase in blood pressure and heart rate that lasts for several hours. A lot of experts recommend that you begin with a low dose and gradually increase the dose over the course of several weeks.
Stimant medications are taken by mouth, typically every day, either once or twice. The majority are available in long- and short-acting formulas. Short-acting stimulants peak within a couple of hours and should be taken 3 times per day. Long-acting stimulants last 8-12 hours and are taken twice every day.
These medications can cause undesirable adverse effects, like nausea, insomnia and a loss of appetite. They may also make some people moody or angry however these effects typically fade with time and can often be managed by adjusting the dosage. In some cases stimulants can change your personality. You may become withdrawn, listless, or more rigid and obsessed. They may also increase the risk of other mental disorders, including mania and depression.
adhd anxiety medication are controlled substances and require a prescription to be obtained. They are frequently misused by adults and adolescents for the purpose of performance enhancement, and can cause addiction if taken improperly or not as prescribed. Due to these dangers, doctors are cautious in assessing the need for stimulant medications and monitor the dosage and effects.
Non-stimulant drugs
There are a variety of non-stimulant ADHD medications, and the one that is best for you depends on your individual needs. These medications don't affect the same brain chemicals as stimulants do. Non-stimulants have fewer negative effects, but take longer to act and last only 24 hours. The majority of these drugs work by increasing norepinephrine levels in the brain. This includes antidepressants, such as bupropion (Wellbutrin), nortriptyline, and Pamelor.
Psychotherapy
Therapy can teach people how to deal with the symptoms and learn new coping techniques such as controlling impulsivity or stress. BetterHelp, a service that offers therapy online connects people with licensed therapists with expertise in treating ADHD and other mental conditions. Take a free assessment and be connected with a therapist in less than 48 hours. Non-stimulant and stimulant medications can help people suffering from ADHD improve their ability to focus and decrease impulsivity, however they do not address the underlying causes of the disorder. In addition to talk therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness-based treatments can teach people methods to manage the impulsive behavior of their children and increase their ability to manage their emotions. These techniques can be taught by an ADHD coach or practiced with a trained therapist. They can also be taught to caregivers and parents to assist the child or adult suffering from ADHD in these areas. In certain instances, a combination of medication and talk therapy is the best option.