ADHD Medications and Treatments
The most common medications used to treat ADHD are stimulants. They boost levels of neurotransmitters that help improve concentration and control impulses. They include dextroamphetamine and amphetamine which are marketed under names such as Adderall, and methylphenidate and Lisdexamfetamine. They are also known as Ritalin and Concerta.
If stimulants don't work or cause too many side effects, doctors can prescribe antidepressants, such as Wellbutrin. These medications target norepinephrine as well as dopamine in the brain.
Medication
Drugs affect brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine which are vital for thinking and attention. Stimulants, the most common medication for ADHD, can be efficient when used as directed. But, as with all medications, stimulants can trigger side effects. Doctors and patients collaborate to find the best dosage or combination of medications to minimize the side effects.
Symptoms of ADHD can vary, but they always include inattention and hyperactive-impulsive behavior. The signs usually start prior to 12 years of age and progress through adolescence and sometimes into adulthood. The symptoms can be mild, moderate, or severe and could differ for boys and girls. Boys and children assigned male at birth (AMAB) tend to show more hyperactive-impulsive symptoms, but the same behaviors can occur in girls and women.
A medical professional can identify ADHD in the teen or child by following the guidelines of the American Psychiatric Association for the disorder. They will discuss with the parents and children about their symptoms, and will observe them in different situations. To be diagnosed with ADHD, a child has to exhibit at least six signs that appear in two or more settings and must affect the child's functioning and development. The signs must have been present before the child turned 12 years old.
The majority of children suffering from ADHD are prescribed medication to treat their symptoms. Doctors can prescribe amphetamine-based stimulants like Adderall or methylphenidate (the drug found in Ritalin). Doctors can also prescribe non-stimulant drugs to treat ADHD such as atomoxetine and bupropion. These medicines don't work in the same way as stimulants do however they can lessen some of the disorder's nagging adverse effects.
People suffering from ADHD frequently suffer from other psychiatric disorders, such as depression or another mood problem. They also are at a greater risk of developing substance use disorders. Behavioral therapy, which can teach adults and children better ways to cope with their ADHD can assist in addressing these other problems.
Research has shown that a combination of medication and behavioral therapy can improve the quality of life a person and reduce symptoms. Some kids and teenagers don't respond well to the ADHD medication, and may require a different medication or a lower dose. Clinical trials are ongoing to determine the most effective treatment for adolescents and adults with ADHD.
Behavioral therapy
For some, behavior therapy might not require medication. For these individuals changing their diet and lifestyle can help ease symptoms of ADHD. Additionally, they might be able to find ways to improve their organization skills, such as keeping important items in designated places or using reminders and alarms. I Am Psychiatry and other activities requiring physical movement can be used to help channel energy instead of acting impulsively.
Behavioral therapy is especially beneficial for children with ADHD. It can teach parents effective parenting techniques, as well as ways to help their child deal with stress and other problems that can cause problems with attention. Behavioral therapy helps children to learn to manage their emotions, build positive self-esteem, and manage their behavior at school.
To determine the cause of ADHD Doctors will discuss the symptoms with the patient and observe their behavior in different situations. They will look over school records and questionnaires from teachers, family members, and others who know the individual. They will also look for other health conditions and illnesses that have similar symptoms. They also will use ADHD rating scales and conduct an examination for medical reasons.
The most commonly used medications to treat ADHD are stimulants, which are designed to increase brain activity in areas that control attention. These include the prefrontal cortex as well as the basal Ganglia. There are a variety of non-stimulant drugs that are used to treat ADHD, as well. These drugs are regarded as less effective, but they are safer than stimulants.
For those with ADHD treatment is a long process, and it's important to see a health care provider regularly. The symptoms of ADHD can be a problem with relationships, work, and school. If left untreated, it can lead to depression, low self-esteem, eating problems, poor diet and addiction to alcohol or drugs.
It's also important to talk with your doctor if you find that a medication that was previously effective doesn't have the same effect or causes adverse consequences. It is important to inform your doctor about any other medications you are taking, as some may interact with certain ADHD medications.
Counseling
Whether or not medication is utilized, counseling can help children and adults with ADHD overcome the daily challenges caused by their condition. Therapists can teach them how to keep track of appointments, utilize calendars and date books, and set realistic goals for themselves. Counseling can also improve relationships and reduce conflict. Mental health professionals can help educate parents about the disorder and help them develop abilities and attitudes or ways to interact with their children.
For adults, counseling can teach them how to manage their lives and improve their work performance. They can learn to remain focused on their tasks by breaking up large projects into smaller, more manageable pieces and practice coping strategies for dealing with anger, frustration, and anxiety. Psychotherapy can also help adults gain confidence and control their impulsive and risk-taking behaviors.
Many adults discover that other treatment options are helpful in addition to counseling. The stimulants can cause side effects such as jitteriness and sleep disturbances. They should only be taken according to prescription. People suffering from ADHD should be honest with their healthcare professionals and let them know whether they're having difficulty with certain medications.
The majority of doctors prescribe the stimulant methylphenidate, or MPH, to treat ADHD. This drug increases the amount of neurotransmitters that influence attention and behavior in the brain. The drug is available in immediate-release as well as extended-release forms. The longer-acting versions build up gradually in the bloodstream and wear off slowly, which minimizes a "crash" result that can occur when the dosage drops.
Some people with ADHD may benefit from non-stimulant drugs like atomoxetine, an antidepressant, or bupropion. They are slower to work than stimulants, and may be beneficial for those who are unable to use them due to health issues or severe adverse effects.
Some people suffering from ADHD also suffer from anxiety or depression. In these instances doctors will often prescribe an antidepressant or antianxiety medication in addition to the ADHD medication. They are aware of the ways in which the drugs interact and will watch for any potential side negative effects.
Other treatment options
ADHD can be treated with a variety of medications. They are all designed to increase the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. This increases the ability to concentrate and listen, as well as their memory. These medications include stimulants as well with nonstimulants. Stimulants, which are the most commonly prescribed medication for treating ADHD are stimulants. While stimulants can be effective for many people, they may cause adverse side effects. Some of these side-effects can be severe. Your doctor can assist you in determining the right dosage of medication to suit your requirements. They may also suggest alternative treatments that help reduce or avoid adverse effects.
The two most popular kinds of stimulants used for ADHD are methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine. These medications are sold under many brand names, such as Adderall and Ritalin. They are available as extended-release and short-acting formulations. Short-acting drugs can last up to 3-4 hours and are generally taken three or four times per day. Extended-release preparations are usually taken every day and can last as long as 16 hours. Many adults supplement an extended release morning medication by taking a dose shorter-acting in the late in the afternoon or evening, to make up the time between the medication wearing off and the next dose.
Stimulants can cause upset stomach and changes in blood pressure or heart rate. They can also make people feel more anxious and irritable than they usually do. They can also make tics more intense or increase the frequency of their appearance. In some children and adolescents they may cause a slight delay in growth, but this is temporary and doesn't affect the final height. They can also increase appetite and weight gain, and can lead to an increase in blood cholesterol and other heart problems in some people.
Some antidepressants can be employed "off-label" to treat ADHD. Bupropion (Wellbutrin) is the most popular drug used. It works by increasing neurotransmitters like dopamine, norepinephrine and so on. It is especially beneficial for people with ADHD and anxiety or depression. It is a great option in the event that stimulants don't work when they are tolerated or abused, or if a substance abuse disorder is present.