ADHD Medications
The use of medication is an integral aspect of managing ADHD symptoms. Finding the right dosage to alleviate symptoms without causing any adverse negative effects can be a challenging process.
Stimulants are the most popular prescription medications healthcare providers use to treat ADHD. Examples include methylphenidate, lisdexamfetamine dimesylate (Vyvanse), and clonidine chloride (Kapvay).
Stimulants
Stimulants are drugs that act to stimulate the central nervous systems. They are often referred to by the term "uppers" and include drugs such as caffeine, and prescription medications for ADHD and other disorders. In general, stimulants increase the levels of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and norepinephrine, which help brain nerves communicate with one another. These drugs improve alertness, boost energy and help focus attention. They reduce the amount of fidgeting, interrupting and difficulty completing tasks for people suffering from ADHD. They can also improve their performance and relationships at work or school.
The most commonly prescribed stimulants for ADHD are methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) and dextroamphetamine (Adderall). Both short- and longer-acting doses are available. The short-acting medication peaks within a few hours and must be taken between 2-4 times per day. The long-acting medicine lasts 8-12 hours and is generally taken every day. Some adults also take clonidine in addition to stimulants. how to get adhd medication uk belongs to a class of drugs called centrally acting alpha hypotensive agonists and targets areas of brain that control impulsivity.
Most stimulants have some negative effects, but they can be minimized by starting at a low dosage and gradually increasing. Common side effects include insomnia, jitteriness, headache, stomachaches, and a decrease in appetite. Other, more serious side effects include tremors and muscle tics. They can also cause abdominal pain, blurred or distorted vision and confusion, a rapid or irregular heartbeat, and even seizures. People with an history of bipolar or depression disorder should avoid stimulants, since they can aggravate the symptoms.
Certain people who use stimulants can develop psychiatric disorders like hostility or aggression. They may also be withdrawn, listless, rigid or less sociable and talkative. The blood pressure and heart rate may also be increased when taking stimulants for prolonged periods of time. Abusing stimulants, especially among teens and young adults is a major problem. The use of the drug to boost their energy and focus to concentrate and study, or even pull all-nighters while at college.
There are non-stimulant ADHD medication options, however they don't work like stimulants do. Atomoxetine, also known as Strattera, and viloxazine, also known as Qelbree, work by increasing the concentrations norepinephrine, and dopamine in the prefrontal cortex. These drugs could be suitable for people suffering from ADHD who have co-occurring psychiatric disorders, like Tourette syndrome or anxiety.
The most effective approach to treating ADHD is the combination of stimulants and behavioral therapy. To find the right dosage and medication for your child, it is important to discuss all options with your doctor. Ask many questions and be patient as it could be a process of trial and error to discover the medication that eases your or your child's symptoms. During the course of treatment, you should be watching the behavior rating scales and observe changes in class and home behavior, keep an eye out for any side effects, and keep track of your child's weight, height and heart rate. blood pressure.