Medication For ADHD - What Are the Side Effects?
Many people with ADHD have their symptoms improved through medication. But each person reacts differently to different medications and the adverse reactions can be problematic.
Methylphenidate is part of a group of drugs referred to as stimulants. It works by increasing levels of a brain chemical that helps control the behavior and focus.
adhd treatment without medication can improve attention and concentration for 70 to 80% children and adults who take it. They affect neurotransmitters, such as norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. Typically, they cause an initial increase in heart rate and blood pressure which lasts for a long time. Many experts recommend that you start low and gradually increase the dose over a period of time.
Stimulant medications are typically taken orally, one or two times a day. There are both short-acting and long-acting versions of most stimulants. Short-acting stimulants peak within a couple of hours and must be taken 2-3 times a day. Long-acting stimulants last for 8-12 hours and are taken once per day.
These drugs may cause unwanted side effects, such as insomnia, nausea and a loss of appetite. They can also make people irritable or moody however, these effects usually fade with time and are usually controlled by adjusting the dosage. In some instances, stimulants may change your personality. You might become more withdrawn, listless, or more focused and rigid. They can also increase the risk of other mental disorders, including depression and mania.
Most stimulants are controlled drugs and require prescription. Adolescents and adults misuse these substances to boost performance. They can become addicted if they are not used properly or as prescribed. Because of these risks, doctors carefully consider the need for stimulant medications and be aware of the dosage and any adverse effects.
Non-stimulant drugs
There are many non-stimulant ADHD treatments and the most effective one depends on the individual. These are prescription medicines however they don't act on the same brain chemicals as stimulants. Non-stimulants are less likely have negative side effects, however, they take longer to effect and only last for a period of 24 hours. Most of them work by increasing the amount of norepinephrine within the brain. They also include antidepressants like bupropion (Wellbutrin) and nortriptyline (Aventyl and Pamelor).
Psychotherapy
Therapy can teach people how to deal with their symptoms, and also develop new coping strategies, like managing stress or controlling impulsivity. BetterHelp is a company that offers therapy online, matches people to licensed therapists trained in treating ADHD and other mental illnesses. Get a free assessment and be connected with a therapist in less than 48 hours. The use of stimulants and non-stimulants can help people with ADHD improve their ability to focus and reduce 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 strategies to manage their impulsive behavior and improve their ability to manage their emotions. These techniques can be learned by an ADHD coach or by experimenting with a trained therapist. Parents and caregivers can learn these methods to assist their child or adult with ADHD. In some instances it is recommended to combine medications and talk therapy is the best option.