ADHD Medications - Add ADHD Stimulants to Your Treatments
Stimulants increase brain chemicals that regulate behavior. Doctors often prescribe these medications to treat ADHD symptoms. They can also be used to treat symptoms of depression or anxiety.
Kids and teens who don't take their ADHD medications typically have more severe symptoms. non prescription adhd medication is why they should be aware of the importance of following doctors and their instructions.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most commonly used type of medication healthcare providers use to treat ADHD in both adults and children. They are used to increase the levels of certain chemicals (neurotransmitters) in the brain, such as dopamine and norepinephrine. This aids in concentration and reduces impulsive behaviors. About non prescription adhd medication uk of ADHD sufferers who take the right dose experience fewer ADHD symptoms.
FDA-approved stimulants include those in the amphetamine and methylphenidate class. They are considered to be the first-line treatment for the disorder because of decades of research that has shown high response rates with good tolerability and safety across the lifespan and a low risk of adverse effects. They are also not habit-forming and there is no evidence to suggest that they cause substance use disorder. However, if they are used in higher-than-prescribed amounts, or by people who don't have ADHD, they can lead to serious side effects and even cause brain changes.
These drugs come in different forms, or formulations. Methylphenidate pills are the most frequently prescribed stimulant to treat ADHD, while amphetamines as well as atomoxetine are available.
Some long-acting versions of these medications last up to 16 hours, and can decrease the need for an afternoon or evening dose. They also can help keep from the rapid changes in blood pressure and heart rates that can occur with shorter-acting stimulants. Some people who are taking these medications may suffer from an "crash effect" when they stop taking them. It is characterized by a sudden, sharp drop in energy.
These medications can cause other side effects, such as upset stomach or appetite suppression, as well as sleep problems. They can also cause dry mouth, mood swings, and sleep problems. In rare instances stimulants can cause tics to worsen. For example certain adolescents and children taking ADHD medication experience increased eye blinking or throat clearing. These are usually mild and go away once the body adjusts to the medication. In rare cases, ADHD medications can delay growth in children and result in them being smaller than their peers.
Non-stimulant medicines take longer to begin working, but they don't cause the same sudden bursts of energy, and can help improve concentration, attention and control over time. Because they're not controlled substances they are less likely be misused or lead to addiction disorders. However, some may be affected by the "crash", or rebound effect, after they suddenly stop taking these medications.
Because ADHD is a complicated condition and can be a source of stress, doctors usually prescribe several medications and monitor a person's bodily reactions to make sure they are receiving the right amount. This is especially important in the case of treating a co-occurring condition such as anxiety or depression. This is why it's crucial for anyone suffering from ADHD to visit an psychiatric specialist on a regular basis until they've found the right combination of medications and dosage. If you're looking for an expert psychiatrist who can assess your mental health and help you decide whether to consider adding ADHD medications, Talkiatry is an online psychiatry practice that can connect you with a doctor within a matter of days.