Does ADHD Medication Work?
When someone is given a prescription for ADHD medication, they usually think about whether the medication will be effective and how long it will last. Here are some easy answers.
Stimulants modify brain chemicals that relay messages about activity and attention. Dopamine, norepinephrine and other brain chemicals are also included. They are the first line of treatment for adults suffering from ADHD.
1. Stimulants
Stimulants are frequently used to treat ADHD. They alter the activity neurotransmitters in the brain (like dopamine), which helps people remain focused and organized. About 80% of ADHD adults and children experience improvement in symptoms once they have found the correct stimulant formula and dose.
When prescribed by a doctor and taken in the right way the drugs aren't habit-forming. But when they are abused (like when they are snorted or injected) or used by people without ADHD, they can result in addiction and other mental health problems.
Healthcare professionals treat ADHD with a range of amphetamine- and methylphenidate-based medications. Most doctors start with a low dose of the medication and gradually increase it until the patient has control over their symptoms. Stimulant medicines are also available in a variety of forms from tablets to extended-release and quick-acting.
Side effects of stimulant medications are common, but they typically disappear after several weeks or if your doctor recommends you alter the dosage. The side effects of stimulants could include a decrease in appetite, weight loss or changes in appetite. They can also cause difficulty sleeping, an increased heart rate, irritability, or sadness.
Most stimulant medicines are safe for healthy individuals. However it is crucial to avoid illegal drugs or supplements that claim to treat ADHD. These medications are only prescribed by doctors and specific healthcare professionals. Supplements like omega-3 fish oils and melatonin haven't been proven to reduce ADHD symptoms.
It is important to consult your doctor in the event that you or your child experience new side effects after the use of a stimulant. It could be a sign the medication isn't doing its job or that you are suffering from other health issues that need attention.
It's also important to take the medication at the same time every day to ensure it is most likely to have the greatest chance of reducing ADHD symptoms. Some families opt to continue taking stimulant drugs after their child is no longer showing symptoms, but this is not recommended for all. It's possible to take a break from stimulants, especially for teenagers, to observe how their brains function and assist them in learning to manage ADHD.
2. Non-stimulants
Stimulant medication has been used for a long time to treat ADHD. It's effective in 70-80 percent of both adults and children, and can help improve their ability to pay attention, focus and manage their impulsive behaviors. These drugs work by increasing the levels of certain chemicals, called neurotransmitters, in the brain. These drugs work by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine levels, which aid in managing ADHD symptoms such as short attention spans and impulsive behavior. They are available in a variety of liquid and tablet forms including immediate-release formulas that are taken two to three times a day for quick focus boosts and extended-release tablets that can be used throughout the day.
The newer non-stimulant medications are not as effective as stimulants, but they are safe for a majority of people. They are available in chewables and capsules. They can also be added to food or beverages for children who have difficulty swallowing pills. Atomoxetine (Strattera) is the first nonstimulant approved for ADHD treatment. It's a selective norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitor that boosts the amount of norepinephrine that is present in the brain, and is also used to treat depression.
It can take time to determine the appropriate dosage and dosage for each individual. Be patient and speak to your doctor in case you or your child is having problems with the medication.
You may have to switch between stimulants and non-stimulants if one isn't working for you. Talk to your physician any other medical conditions you or your child could be suffering from, as well as any other medications (including over-the counter medication), as well as the foods you consume or drink.
Before you start or alter your ADHD medication, you should be sure to be able to have your blood pressure checked. It's often found that methylphenidate-based drugs, such as Adderall and Ritalin, can cause a slight increase in blood pressure in some people. Some people may have to take a break from their medication during vacations or holidays, and return to it when they return to school or at home. Regular exercise can boost concentration and decrease risky behaviors that can be associated with ADHD.
3. Other medication
The majority of ADHD medications require a prescription. Doctors must monitor patients to determine the proper dosage and the appropriate drug type. Teachers and parents can be asked to complete behavioral rating scales, and they can also examine the person's reactions to medication.
Stimulant drugs are often the first line of treatment for kids and adults with ADHD. They help by increasing the levels of neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine that are found in the brain, which improve attention and decreasing fatigue. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention they aid 70 to 80 percent of adults and children with ADHD. They can decrease the tendency to fidget, interrupting, and forgetting things, cut down on the impulsive behavior of jumping, running, or yelling, and improve social skills and school performance. They can also lower blood pressure and heart rate. Most stimulant medications are available in short-acting formulas (that last between 4 and 6 hours) and long-acting forms (that can take up to 12 hours).
Nonstimulant medications do not increase brain's chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine, but they help reduce symptoms in around 50% of people suffering from ADHD. They can help with impulsive behaviors, improve concentration and mood and help you follow directions. They can also improve relationships and reduce aggression. These medicines include the drugs atomoxetine (brand name Strattera) and viloxazine (brand name Qelbree). They can also be used along with stimulants.
Very few children and adults who are taking stimulant medication might become depressed, zombie-like or tearful or angry. If this happens, it's an indication that the dose is too high and should be reduced.
ADHD can be treated by a variety of drugs. It may require many trials and error to discover the best one for your child or you. The medication needs to be taken regularly to ensure its effectiveness. If someone quits taking the medication, ADHD symptoms will return. It is a commitment for the whole life and it takes time to find the right dosage and drug that provides the best results with the fewest side negative effects.
4. Behavioral therapies
Many people suffering from ADHD are not able to find medication eliminates all their symptoms. Behavioral therapy can help them better manage their symptoms and improve their everyday functioning. It can also improve the relationships they have with others and boost their self-esteem and boost their confidence.
adhd medication list are usually employed in combination with ADHD medication. This multi-component approach to treatment will yield the best results for children suffering from ADHD. Combining medication and behavior management are more effective than either approach alone.
Therapists work with the child to help them develop new skills that will help them deal with their ADHD symptoms. This typically involves teaching them organizational strategies and how to reduce distractions. It may also include teaching them strategies to cope when they experience emotional distress, such as mindfulness meditation and emotional regulation. Behavioral therapy for ADHD is typically delivered in groups. This allows the therapist to provide support and reinforcement to multiple children at a time and increases the chance that the child will follow through the program.
The therapist could also work with the parents to help them learn how to reinforce positive behaviors. They will help them develop an approach to rewarding good behavior and use discipline when necessary. They will also teach the child about time management planning, goal setting and planning. The therapist might also suggest using a reward chart that allows the child to earn points when they complete tasks. If the child does not adhere to their responsibilities, the therapist might need to introduce negative consequences, such as losing points.
People who aren't responding to medication may be able to benefit from cognitive behavior therapy (CBT). This type of therapy concentrates on changing how the person perceives their problems. It can also help to manage their emotions better and decrease the risk of impulsive behavior.
Behavioral therapies are typically less expensive than medication. However, they may take longer to produce results. If symptoms do not improve after a specific time frame, it's essential to talk with your doctor about what could be making them worse. It could be that the child is not taking their medication in the right way or that the dosage needs to be increased. It could also be that stressful events in life are creating stress and making it difficult for the child to concentrate. Find-a-therapist functions are offered in the ADDA, CHADD's National Resource Center and the ADDitude Directory. These features can help you locate a therapist who offers CBT.