Add ADHD Medications
70 percent to 80% of adults and children with ADHD benefit from stimulant medications. They can reduce the tendency to fidget, interrupt and other problematic behaviors, and boost focus and concentration.
The effects of side effects are common, but they are usually minor and fade with time. These include nausea, heart rate and blood pressure changes as well as anxiety, tics, and heart rate changes.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase levels of certain brain chemicals to help you stay awake and focus, as well as to help you be active. These drugs are commonly used to treat ADHD in children and adults. They are also used to treat narcolepsy, obesity and depression.
There are many types of stimulants, however they all function the same way. They target dopamine (a brain chemical that is involved in motivation, control of movement, and behavior). They ease ADHD symptoms for 70-80% of people when taken at the prescribed dosage. They reduce distracting behaviors, fidgeting, and interrupting, and increase the ability to follow instructions and complete tasks.
The majority of stimulants are part of the methylphenidate family. This includes Ritalin, Concerta and Focalin in addition to other brand-name drugs. The other major group is the amphetamines, which include Adderall, Dexedrine and others. There are a variety of kinds of these medicines that range from liquid to chewable tablets to an e-skin patch for children. Schedule II drugs include methylphenidate, amphetamine and other groups. This means they have abuse potential. However, research shows that those who take adhd medications as prescribed have a lower incidence of a disorder involving substance use than those who don't use these medications.
Although stimulants do not cause habit-forming, side effects can include headaches, nausea, and changes in blood flow and heart rate. They can also affect sleep and appetite. Talk to your doctor if you have heart issues or high blood pressure before taking these medications.
These medications can affect certain drugs that treat psychiatric issues including antidepressants as well as mood stabilizers. Discuss with your doctor all the medications you are taking, including vitamins, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements.
Some people have trouble getting the right dose of medication and have to alter it over time. The doctor may also change the kind of medication you're taking, or change the time of day it is taken.
Comorbidity medications can be used in combination with stimulants to boost results. Your doctor will determine whether you should add an option for treating comorbid conditions according to your particular requirements and symptoms.
The most frequent comorbid disorders treated with get more info stimulants are depression and anxiety. In some instances, based on the comorbidity, you may need to consult a neurologist.
A referral to a specialist will ensure that you receive the best treatment available. A psychiatrist or psychologist can help determine if you require treatment for psychiatric disorders and make sure you are taking the right dosage of medication. They can also recommend neurologists if your symptoms suggest a neurological disorder like seizures. They can also provide support and resources for managing a mental disorder. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all children who require ADHD treatment be referred to an expert in mental health.