Medication For ADHD - What Are the Side Effects? Many people who suffer from ADHD experience improvements in their symptoms by taking medication. But each person reacts differently to various drugs, and side effects can be troublesome. Methylphenidate is a stimulant. It is a stimulant that increases levels of a chemical in the brain that helps control behavior and attention. Stimulant medications Stimulants enhance attention and concentration in 70% to 80percent of children and adults who use them. They alter neurotransmitters like norepinephrine or dopamine in the brain. They typically cause an initial increase in blood pressure and heart rate that lasts for a few hours. Because of this, many experts recommend that people begin with a low dose and gradually increase to the recommended dosage over a period of weeks. Stimant medication is administered by mouth, usually once or twice a day. They are generally available in short- and long-acting formulas. Short-acting stimulants are most effective after a few hours and are required to be taken three times a day; long-acting stimulants last for 8-12 hours and are taken twice a day. These drugs can cause unwanted adverse side effects like insomnia, loss of appetite and nausea. They may also make people feel irritable or moody however these effects typically disappear over time and are often managed by altering the dosage. In best adhd medication can cause changes in personality, such as being withdrawn, unfocused or more rigid and obsessive. They can also increase the risk of other mental disorders, including mania and depression. The majority of stimulants are controlled substances and require prescription. Adults and adolescents abuse stimulants to boost their performance. adhd medication for adults uk can develop addiction when they are not used properly or as prescribed. Because of these risks doctors carefully consider the need for stimulant medications and be aware of the dosage and any adverse effects. Non-stimulant medications There are a variety of non-stimulant ADHD medications that are available, and the one that is most effective is determined by the individual. These are prescription drugs, but they do not affect the same brain chemicals as stimulants. Non-stimulants cause less negative effects, but take longer to kick in and last only for 24 hours. Most of these medications 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 people how to deal with symptoms, and develop new coping strategies, like managing stress or controlling impulsivity. BetterHelp, an online therapy platform, matches people with licensed therapists who are trained to treat ADHD and other mental health conditions. You can take a no-cost assessment and get connected with a therapist in as little as 48 hours. Stimulant and non-stimulant medication can help people with ADHD improve their ability to concentrate and reduce impulsivity, however they don't address some of the underlying causes of the disorder. In addition to talk therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness-based treatments can teach people strategies to manage their an impulsive personality and improve their ability to manage their emotions. These techniques can be taught by an ADHD coach or practiced with a trained therapist. Parents and caregivers can learn these methods to help their child or adult with ADHD. In certain instances, a combination of medication and talk therapy is the most effective approach.
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