How To Outsmart Your Boss In Medication For ADHD

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Medication For ADHD - What Are the Side Effects?

Many people who suffer from ADHD find their symptoms improve by taking medication. Every person's reaction to medication is different, and the side effects can be problematic.

Methylphenidate belongs to a class of drugs known as stimulants. It works by increasing levels of a chemical in the brain that helps regulate the behavior and focus.

Stimulant medications

Stimulant drugs enhance attention and concentration in 70 to 80% of children and adults who use them. They alter neurotransmitters like norepinephrine or dopamine in the brain. They typically cause an initial increase in heart rate and blood pressure that lasts for several hours. Because of this, many experts recommend that people start low and build up to the appropriate dose over a period of weeks.

Stimant medication is taken by mouth, typically once or twice a day. There are both short-acting and long-acting versions of most stimulants. Short-acting stimulants begin to show their effects within a couple of hours and are required to be taken three times a day. Long-acting stimulants last 8-12 hours and are taken twice per day.

These medications can trigger unwanted adverse effects, such as nausea, insomnia and nausea. Some people may become irritable or moody. However, these effects usually disappear over time and are able to be controlled by changing the dosage. In certain instances, stimulants can alter your personality. You may become withdrawn or irritable, or even more rigid and obsessed. They may also increase the risk of developing other mental disorders, like depression and mania.

The majority of stimulants are controlled substances and require a prescription. Adults and adolescents abuse stimulants to boost their performance. They may become addicted when they aren't used properly or as prescribed. Because of the dangers, doctors are cautious in assessing the need for stimulant medication and to monitor the dosage and effects.

Non-stimulant medication

There are a myriad of non-stimulant ADHD medication options, and the one that is most appropriate for you is based on your personal needs. These prescription drugs do not affect the same brain chemicals as stimulants do. Non-stimulants are less likely have negative side effects however they may take longer to work and last only for a period of 24 hours. The majority of these drugs are able to increase the levels of norepinephrine in the brain. This includes antidepressants, such as bupropion (Wellbutrin), nortriptyline, and Pamelor.

Psychotherapy

Therapy can teach the patient how to deal with the symptoms and learn new coping techniques such as stress management or impulsivity control. BetterHelp, an online therapy platform connects people with licensed therapists trained to treat ADHD and other mental health conditions. You can find an therapist within a matter of 48 hours after completing a no-cost online assessment. Stimulant and non-stimulant medication can help people suffering from ADHD improve get more info their ability to concentrate and reduce impulsivity, but they do not address the root causes of the disorder. In addition to talking therapy, cognitive behavior therapy and mindfulness-based therapies can teach a person techniques to control an impulsive personality and improve their ability to manage their emotions. These techniques can be learned by an ADHD coach or through practice with a qualified therapist. Parents and caregivers can be taught these techniques to assist their child or adult suffering from ADHD. In some instances it is recommended to combine medication and talk therapy is the best approach.