Medication For ADHD - What Are the Side Effects?
Many people suffering from ADHD have their symptoms improved through medication. But every person reacts differently to different drugs and side effects can be troublesome.
Methylphenidate is a stimulant. It is a stimulant that increases levels of a substance in the brain that aids in controlling attention and behavior.
Stimulant medication
Stimulant medication can improve concentration and attention for 70% to 80% of children and adults that use it. They alter neurotransmitters, such as norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. They usually trigger an initial rise in blood pressure and heart rate that lasts for several hours. Because of this, experts recommend that patients begin with a low dose and gradually increase to the optimal dose over a period of weeks.
Stimant medications are taken by mouth, usually every day, either once or twice. They are generally available in short- and long-acting formulas. Short-acting stimulating drugs peak within a few hours and should be taken twice a day. Long-acting stimulants last 8-12 hours, and are taken only once per week.
These drugs may cause unwanted adverse effects, like insomnia, nausea, and a loss of appetite. Some people might become irritable or moody. However, these effects usually disappear over time and are able to be controlled by changing the dosage. In some instances, stimulants may change your personality. You could become more introverted, listless, or more rigid and obsessed. They can also increase the risk of other psychiatric issues, like depression and mania.
adhd medications uk are controlled substances and require prescriptions to be obtained. They are frequently misused by adults and teens for the purpose of performance enhancement, and can cause addiction if taken in a manner that is not approved. Because of these dangers, doctors are attentive to determine the need for stimulant drugs and to monitor dosage and effects.
Non-stimulant medication
There are a variety of non-stimulant ADHD treatments that are available, and the one that is most effective is determined by the person. These medications do not alter the same brain chemicals as stimulants do. Non-stimulants have fewer side effects but can take longer to kick in and last for only 24 hours. adhd uk medication 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 teach a person how to cope with symptoms, and develop new coping techniques such as controlling impulsivity or stress. BetterHelp is a company that provides online therapy connects people with licensed therapists with expertise in treating ADHD and other mental conditions. Get a free assessment and be matched with a therapist in as little as 48 hours. Non-stimulant or stimulant medications can help those with ADHD reduce their impulsivity and increase their ability to concentrate however, they do not tackle the root causes. Cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness can be utilized in conjunction with talk therapy to teach people how to control their impulse-driven behavior. These methods can be learned through an ADHD coach or by practicing them with a therapist who is trained. They can also be taught to caregivers and parents so that they can support the child or adult suffering from ADHD in these areas. In some cases it is recommended to combine medications and talk therapy is the most effective approach.