Medication For ADHD - What Are the Side Effects?

Many people who prescribes medication for adhd suffer from ADHD find their symptoms improve through medication. But every person reacts differently to different medications, and adverse effects can be a problem.

Methylphenidate is a stimulant. It works by increasing levels of a chemical in the brain that regulates behavior and attention.

Stimulant medication

Stimulant medication improves concentration and attention for 70 to 80% of children and adults that use it. They affect neurotransmitters such as norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. They usually trigger an initial rise in blood pressure and heart rate that lasts for several hours. A lot of experts recommend starting at a low dose and gradually increase the dosage over the course of several weeks.

Stimant medication is taken by mouth, usually at least once or twice per day. They are generally available in long- and short-acting formulas. Short-acting stimulants peak within a couple of hours, and must be taken twice a day. Long-acting stimulants last for 8 to 12 hours and are taken only once a week.

These drugs may cause unwanted side effects, such as insomnia, nausea and loss of appetite. Some people might become irritable or moody. However these effects tend to disappear over time and are able to be controlled by altering the dosage. In some cases stimulants can change your personality. You could become more introverted, listless, or more rigid and obsessed. They can a doctor prescribe adhd medication options medication (here.) also increase the risk of developing other psychiatric issues, like mania and depression.

Most stimulants are controlled substances, and require the prescription of a doctor. They are frequently misused by adults and adolescents to achieve performance enhancement, and they can result in addiction if used in a way that is not prescribed. Because of these dangers, doctors are attentive to determine the need for stimulant drugs and monitor the dosage and side effects carefully.

Non-stimulant medicine

There are a variety of non-stimulant ADHD medications, and which one is most appropriate for you is based on your specific requirements. These are prescription drugs however they don't act on the same brain chemicals as stimulants. Non-stimulants are less likely to have negative side effects however, they take longer to effect and only last for a period of 24 hours. Most of these medications work by increasing norepinephrine levels in the brain. This includes antidepressants such as bupropion (Wellbutrin), nortriptyline, and Pamelor.

Psychotherapy

Talk therapy can help people how to get medication for adhd uk to deal with their symptoms, and also develop new coping strategies, like controlling impulsivity or stress. BetterHelp, a service that offers online therapy, matches people to licensed therapists with expertise in treating ADHD and other mental conditions. You can be matched with a therapist within 48 hours after completing a no-cost online assessment. Non-stimulant or stimulant medications can assist people suffering from ADHD reduce their impulsivity and increase their ability to concentrate, but they do not tackle the root causes. In addition to talking therapy, cognitive behavior therapy and mindfulness-based therapies can teach a person strategies to manage their impulsive behavior and improve their ability to manage their emotions. These techniques can a general practitioner prescribe adhd medication be taught by an ADHD coach or practiced with a certified therapist. Parents and caregivers can be taught these techniques to help their child or adult who suffers from ADHD. In some cases the combination of medication for inattentive adhd and anxiety and talk therapy may be the most effective approach.