Medication For ADHD - What Are the Side Effects?

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

Methylphenidate is a stimulant. It works by increasing levels of a brain chemical that helps regulate the behavior and focus.

Stimulant medication

Stimulant drugs enhance concentration and attention in 70 to 80percent of adults and children who use them. They alter the activity of key neurotransmitters in the brain, like dopamine and norepinephrine. Typically, they cause an initial increase in blood pressure and heart rate that lasts for several hours. This is why experts recommend that patients begin with a low dose and gradually increase to the appropriate dose over a period of weeks.

Stimant medications are consumed orally, typically once or two times a day. There are both short-acting and long-acting versions of most stimulants. Short-acting stimulants are most effective after a few hours and must be taken 2-3 times a day. Long-acting stimulants last between 8 and 12 hours and are taken only once every day.

These medications can cause undesirable side effects, including insomnia, nausea and a loss of appetite. They can also make people moody or angry, but these effects generally disappear over time and can often be managed by adjusting the dosage. In some instances, stimulants can cause changes in personality, such as becoming more withdrawn, irritable or more rigid and obsessive. They may also raise the risk of other mental health issues, like mania and depression.

Most stimulants are controlled drugs and require a prescription. They are frequently used by adults and adolescents to achieve performance enhancement, and they could cause addiction if taken in a way that is not prescribed. Due to these risks, doctors carefully consider the need for stimulant medications and be aware of the dosage and any adverse effects.

Non-stimulant drugs

There are a number of non-stimulant Safest Adhd Medication For Adults treatments and the most effective one is dependent on the individual. These are prescription medicines however they do not affect the same brain chemicals as stimulants. Non-stimulants are less likely have negative side effects, however, they take longer to effect and last only for 24 hours. Most of these drugs operate by increasing the amount 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 their symptoms, and also develop new strategies for coping, such as managing stress or controlling impulsivity. BetterHelp, an online therapy platform connects clients with licensed therapists who are trained to treat ADHD and other mental health issues. You can take a no-cost assessment and be matched with a therapist in less than 48 hours. Stimulant or non-stimulant medications can help those with inattentive adhd medication adults reduce impulsivity and improve their ability to concentrate however they don't solve the root cause. In addition to talking therapy, cognitive behavior therapy and mindfulness-based treatments can teach people techniques to control the impulsive behavior of their children and increase 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 be taught these techniques so they can help their child or adult with adhd medication cost uk. In some instances the combination of medication and therapy is the most effective approach.