Jonelle Whicker

Medication For ADHD - What Are the Side Effects?

Many people with ADHD have a decrease in symptoms when taking medication. But every person reacts differently to various drugs and the side effects can be troublesome.

Methylphenidate belongs to a class of drugs referred to as stimulants. It works by raising levels of a chemical within the brain that helps control attention and behavior.

Stimulant medications

Stimulant medications improve concentration and attention for 70% to 80% children and adults who use it. They alter the neurotransmitters involved in the brain, like dopamine and norepinephrine. They typically cause an initial increase in heart rate and blood pressure that lasts for a few hours. This is why experts advise that people begin with a low estrogen and adhd medication dose and gradually increase to the recommended dosage over the course of weeks.

Stimant medication is taken by mouth, typically at least once or twice per day. They are generally available in short- and long-acting formulations. Short-acting stimulants are most effective after a short time and are required to be taken three times per day. Long-acting stimulants last for 8-12 hours and are taken only once per day.

These medications can trigger unwanted side effects such as anxiety, insomnia and nausea. They can also make people irritable or moody however, these effects usually diminish over time and can often be managed by adjusting the dosage. In some cases stimulants can alter your personality. You might become more withdrawn, listless, or more focused and rigid. They can also increase the risk of developing other psychiatric issues, like mania and depression.

Most stimulants are controlled substances, and require a prescription to be obtained. Adults and adolescents use them to enhance performance. They may become addicted when they aren't used properly or as prescribed. Because of the dangers, doctors are attentive to determine the need for stimulant drugs and monitor the dosage and effects.

Non-stimulant medications

There are a number of non-stimulant ADHD medicines, and the best medication for adhd combined type one depends on the individual. These prescription medications do not alter the same brain chemicals that stimulants do. Non-stimulants are less likely to cause side effects but can take longer to act and last only 24 hours. They are mostly effective by increasing the amount of norepinephrine within the brain. They also include antidepressants such as bupropion (Wellbutrin) and nortriptyline (Aventyl and Pamelor).

Psychotherapy

Talk therapy can help the patient how to get adhd medication uk to deal with symptoms, and develop new coping strategies, like managing stress or controlling impulsivity. BetterHelp, a service that provides online therapy, matches people to licensed therapists who specialize in treating ADHD and other mental conditions. Take a free assessment and you'll be matched with a therapist in less than 48 hours. Stimulant or non-stimulant medications can help those with ADHD reduce impulsivity and improve their ability where to get prescribed adhd medication concentrate however they don't address the underlying causes. Cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness can be used in conjunction with talk therapy to teach people how to control their impulsive behavior. These techniques can be learned by an ADHD coach or through practice with a qualified therapist. Parents and caregivers can be taught these techniques so they can help their child or adult with liquid adhd medication. In certain instances, a combination of medication and talk therapy is the best approach.