Medication For ADHD - What Are the Side Effects?

Many people with ADHD have a decrease in symptoms when they take medication. Each person's reaction to drugs is different, and the side effects are sometimes problematic.

Methylphenidate belongs to a class of drugs known as stimulants. It works by increasing levels of a chemical in the brain that aids in controlling the behavior and attention.

Stimulant drugs

Stimulant medications improve concentration and attention for 70 to 80% of children and adults who use it. They work by altering the activity of neurotransmitters that are essential in the brain, including dopamine and norepinephrine. They typically cause an initial rise in blood pressure and heart rate that lasts several hours. A lot of experts recommend that you start low and gradually increase the dose over a period of time.

Stimulant medications are taken orally, usually once or twice a day. The majority are available in long- and short-acting formulas. Short-acting stimulants peak in a few hours, and should be taken twice a day. Long-acting stimulants last 8-12 hours, and are taken only every week.

These drugs may cause unwanted side effects, such as insomnia, nausea and a loss of appetite. They may also make people moody or angry however, these effects usually fade with time and can often be managed by altering the dosage. In certain instances, stimulants can change your personality. You could become more introverted or irritable, or even more obsessive and rigid. They can also increase the risk of other mental disorders, including depression and mania.

The majority of stimulants are controlled substances, and require a prescription to be obtained. They are often misused by adults and adolescents to achieve performance enhancement, and they could lead to addiction if used in a way that is not prescribed. Because of the dangers, doctors prescribing adhd medication must be careful to evaluate the need for stimulant medications and monitor the dosage and side effects carefully.

Non-stimulant medication

There are a number of non-stimulant ADHD medications, and the best adhd medication for adults uk non stimulant adhd medication for adults, discover this info here, one is dependent on the individual. These are prescription drugs however they don't affect the same brain chemicals as stimulants. Non-stimulants have fewer negative effects, but take longer to kick in and last for only 24 hours. Most of these medications 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 manage symptoms and develop new coping strategies that include controlling impulsivity and stress. BetterHelp is an online therapy platform, matches people with licensed therapists who are trained to treat ADHD and other mental health issues. Get a free assessment and you'll be connected with a therapist in as little as 48 hours. Stimulant and non-stimulant medication can help those with ADHD improve their ability to concentrate and reduce impulsivity, but they don't address the underlying causes of the disorder. In addition to talking therapy, cognitive behavior therapy and mindfulness-based therapies can teach a person techniques to control impulsive behavior and improve their ability to manage their emotions. These techniques can be learned through an adhd medication private prescription coach or by experimenting with a therapist who is trained. They can also be taught to caregivers and parents to assist the child or adult with ADHD in these areas. In some instances, a combination of medication and talk therapy is the most effective approach.