Medication For ADHD - What Are the Side Effects?

Many people suffering from ADHD experience a reduction in symptoms when they take medication. Every person's reaction to medication is different, and the side effects can be a problem.

Methylphenidate is part of a group of drugs known as stimulants. It is a stimulant that increases levels of a chemical within the brain that assists in controlling the behavior and attention.

Stimulant medications

Stimulant medication improves attention and concentration for 70% to 80% of children and adults who use it. They alter the activity of key neurotransmitters in the brain, including dopamine and norepinephrine. Typically, they trigger an initial increase in blood pressure and heart rate that lasts for several hours. Many experts suggest that you begin with a low dose and gradually increase the dose over several weeks.

Stimulant medications are typically taken orally, one or two times a day. There are short-acting as well as long-acting versions for most stimulants. Short-acting stimulants peak within a couple of hours and are required to be taken three times a day. Long-acting stimulants last between 8 and 12 hours and are taken only once per day.

These medications can a general physician prescribe adhd medication trigger unwanted adverse side effects like insomnia, loss of appetite and nausea. They can also make people moody or angry however, these effects usually disappear over time and can often be managed by adjusting the dosage. In some instances, stimulants may change your personality. You might become more withdrawn and sluggish, or rigid and obsessed. They may also raise the risk of developing other psychiatric issues, such as mania and depression.

Most stimulants are controlled drugs and require a prescription. They are often misused by adults and adolescents for the purpose of performance enhancement, and they could result in addiction if used in a manner that is not approved. Because of these risks, doctors carefully consider the need for stimulant medication and keep track of the dosage and adverse effects.

Non-stimulant medication

There are many non-stimulant ADHD medication options, and which one is most suitable for you is determined by your specific requirements. These prescription medications do not alter the same brain chemicals as stimulants do. non amphetamine adhd medication-stimulants cause less negative effects, but take longer to act and last for only 24 hours. The majority of these drugs work by increasing norepinephrine levels in the brain. This includes antidepressants like bupropion (Wellbutrin) nortriptyline and Pamelor.

Psychotherapy

Talk therapy can help a person learn how does adhd medication work for adults to cope with symptoms and develop new coping skills, such as controlling impulsivity and stress. BetterHelp is a company that provides online therapy connects clients with licensed therapists with expertise in treating ADHD and other mental conditions. You can get matched to the right therapist in just 48 hours after completing a free online assessment. Stimulant or non-stimulant medications can help those with ADHD reduce their impulsivity and increase their ability to focus however, they do not solve the root cause. In addition to talking therapy, cognitive behavior therapy and mindfulness-based therapies can teach someone techniques to control impulsive behavior and improve their ability to manage their emotions. These techniques can be taught by an ADHD coach or practiced with a certified therapist. Parents and caregivers can learn these techniques so they can assist their child or adult with ADHD. In some cases the combination of medications and talk therapy might be the best medication for adhd and anxiety approach.