Medication For ADHD - What Are the Side Effects?
Many people who suffer from ADHD have a decrease in symptoms when they use medication. But every person reacts differently to various drugs and the adverse reactions can be problematic.
Methylphenidate is part of a class of drugs known as stimulants. It works by increasing levels of a chemical within the brain that aids in controlling the behavior and attention.
Stimulant medication
Stimulant medications improve attention and concentration for 70% to 80% children and adults who take it. They alter the activity of key neurotransmitters in the brain, such as dopamine and norepinephrine. They typically cause an initial increase in heart rate and blood pressure that lasts for a few hours. medication for adhd uk of experts recommend starting at a low dose and gradually increase the dose over a period of time.
Stimulant medications are consumed orally, typically once or twice a day. There are short-acting and long-acting versions of many stimulants. Short-acting stimulants peak within a couple of hours and are required to be taken three times per day. Long-acting stimulants last 8-12 hours and are taken only once a day.
These drugs can trigger unwanted side effects, including insomnia, nausea and a decrease in appetite. They can also make people feel irritable or moody however these effects typically diminish over time and can often be managed by altering the dosage. In some instances stimulants can trigger changes in personality, such as becoming withdrawn, listless or more rigid and obsessive. They can also increase the risk of other mental health issues, such as mania and depression.
Most stimulants are controlled drugs and require a prescription. They are often misused by adults and adolescents to achieve performance enhancement, and they could result in addiction if used in a manner that is not approved. Because of these dangers, doctors are careful to evaluate the need for stimulant medication and to monitor dosage and effects.
Non-stimulant medicine
There are a number of non-stimulant ADHD treatments and the most effective one is determined by the individual. These are prescription drugs however they do not affect the same brain chemicals as stimulants. Non-stimulants are less likely to cause side effects but can take longer to kick in 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
Talk therapy can help someone learn how to cope with symptoms and develop new coping strategies that include controlling impulsivity and stress. BetterHelp is a service that provides online therapy connects clients with licensed therapists who specialize in treating ADHD and other mental conditions. Take a free assessment and be matched with a therapist in as little as 48 hours. Stimulant or non-stimulant medications can assist people suffering from ADHD reduce impulsivity and improve their ability of focus, but they do not address the underlying causes. In addition to talking therapy, cognitive behavior therapy and mindfulness-based therapies can teach a person strategies to manage their 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 be taught to caregivers and parents so that they can support the adult or child with ADHD in these areas. In certain cases the combination of medication and therapy could be the best option.