ADHD Treatment Medication
Many people with ADHD benefit from medication to improve their ability to pay attention and control their behaviour. These medications are referred to as stimulants. They work by changing how normal brain chemicals, dopamine and norepinephrine, function. Atomoxetine as well as guanfacine are not stimulant drugs that also aid in the treatment of ADHD.
Treatment options consist of psychotherapy, medication, or a combination. The best time to start treatment for behavioral disorders is as soon as the diagnosis is established.
Stimulants
Stimulants boost the levels of brain chemicals known as catecholamines (dopamine, noradrenaline and epinephrine). They help improve concentration and focus, reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity and can increase energy levels. These are the most common medications used for ADHD. Stimulants can cause adverse effects such as anxiety, insomnia, and weight loss, however these are usually mild.
Methylphenidate, the most commonly prescribed stimulant medication used to treat ADHD, is available for teens, adults and children older than 5. It is prescribed to teenagers, adults and children over the age of 5. It is available in tablets with immediate release, which are small doses taken every 2-3 days. Or long-acting inattentive adhd medication , that are taken daily in the morning. Long-acting stimulants can last for up to 12 hours, which can be able to avoid "crash" periods when their effects wear off.
Your child or you will need to have regular GP tests if you use methylphenidate to make sure it is working as well as to check for any possible adverse effects. It could take a while to determine the appropriate dosage, schedule, and type of stimulant your child needs. You will need to be patient and open with your GP in order to determine the best ADHD medication for your child.
Researchers have discovered that medication can have a significant impact on a child's performance at school. On average, students who suffer from ADHD have lower grades than those who do not have the condition. If they have good academic skills and take the medication they are prescribed their GPAs might be comparable to other children with the same age.
The medications can also improve social and family functioning by reducing arguments and fights and feelings of resentment. They also can improve job success, particularly in jobs that require a high level of communication skills and organizational skills. Certain ADHD medications can also reduce dangerous behaviors, such as drinking alcohol or smoking cigarettes.
The most effective treatment for ADHD is the combination of medication therapy, lifestyle changes and therapy. Behavioral therapy can help people learn to manage symptoms and change bad habits. Certain of these therapies can provide you with new coping strategies and strategies for managing stress, anger, and the impulsivity. Some of these therapies can help you improve your organizational skills and push towards your goals.
In the event that stimulants do not work or cause bothersome side effects, nonstimulant medicines can be tried. These drugs require longer time to work however they can help improve attention, focus and control of impulses. They may also reduce anxiety and depression symptoms. In some instances, doctors will try tricyclic antidepressants, such as imipramine (Tofranil) or nortriptyline (Aventyl or Pamelor), which have been proven to help with depression as well as ADHD.
The process of choosing the most effective ADHD medication involves a complex decision-making process that considers your child's or your own history as well as genetics and adverse effects and their individual metabolism. The process of selecting the right dose and medication may be a trial and error one that requires the help of an expert medical professional. Always read the medication guideline and discuss any concerns you have with your doctor or healthcare professional.