Rory Darby

Medication For ADHD - What Are the Side Effects?

Many people suffering from adhd medication weight loss uk find their symptoms improve with medication. But each person reacts differently to different drugs, and adverse effects can be a problem.

Methylphenidate is part of a group of drugs known as stimulants. It works by raising levels of a substance in the brain that assists in controlling the attention span and behavior.

Stimulant medications

Stimulant Uk medication For adhd can improve concentration and attention for 70% to 80% children and adults that use it. They work by altering neurotransmitters such as norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. Typically, they trigger an initial increase in blood pressure and heart rate that lasts for a few hours. This is why many experts recommend that people start with a lower dose and increase it to the appropriate dose over a period of weeks.

Stimant medication is taken by mouth, typically every day, either once or twice. There are short-acting and long-acting versions of most stimulants. Short-acting stimulants begin to show their effects within a couple of hours and must be taken 2-3 times a day; long-acting stimulants last between 8 and 12 hours and are taken twice per day.

These drugs can cause undesirable adverse side effects like anxiety, insomnia and nausea. Some people can become angry or moody. However the effects typically fade over time and can be controlled by changing the dosage. In some instances, stimulants may change your personality. You could become more introverted, listless, or more focused and rigid. They may also increase the risk of developing other mental disorders, including depression and mania.

The majority of stimulants are controlled substances and require a prescription. Adolescents and adults misuse them to enhance performance. They can develop addiction if they are not taken in the correct manner or as directed. Due to these risks, doctors carefully consider the need for stimulant medication and be aware of the dosage and any adverse effects.

Non-stimulant medications

There are a variety of non-stimulant ADHD medications and the most effective one depends on the individual. These prescription medications used for adhd do not affect the same brain chemicals as stimulants do. Non-stimulants are less likely to cause side effects but can take longer to act and last only for 24 hours. They work by increasing the amount of norepinephrine that is present in the brain. They also contain antidepressants like bupropion (Wellbutrin) and nortriptyline (Aventyl and Pamelor).

Psychotherapy

Therapy can assist a person in learning how to deal with symptoms and learn new coping skills, such as controlling impulsivity and stress. BetterHelp is a service that offers online therapy connects clients with licensed therapists trained in treating ADHD and other mental disorders. Get a free assessment and be an appointment with a therapist within less than 48 hours. Stimulant and non-stimulant medication can help those with ADHD improve their ability to concentrate and reduce impulsivity, but they don't address the underlying causes of the disorder. Cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness can be combined with talk therapy to teach people how to control their impulsive behavior. These techniques can be learned through an ADHD coach or by experimenting with a therapist who is trained. They can be taught to parents and caregivers to help the child or adult suffering from ADHD in these areas. In some instances the combination of medications and talk therapy is the best option.