5 Laws Everybody In ADHD Medication Should Know
ADHD Medication Side Effects
Your child or you may suffer from side effects if a doctor prescribes ADHD medication. It can take some experimenting to find the appropriate medication and dosage for you.
The most frequently used medication to treat ADHD is stimulants. They boost brain chemicals that affect attention and concentration.
Doctors also prescribe guanfacine (brand names Tenex and Intuniv) and Clonidine (Catapres) to reduce anxiety and impulsive behavior among people suffering from ADHD. It can take several weeks to effect.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most common type of medication doctors employ to treat ADHD. These drugs increase the levels of brain chemicals called dopamine and norepinephrine which aid people in paying attention and focus their minds. They are also effective for decreasing feelings of anxiety as well as impulsivity and aggression. The use of stimulants is strictly controlled, so only trained paediatricians and psychiatrists are qualified to prescribe them.
Some of the most commonly used stimulants for treating ADHD include amphetamines and methylphenidates. These drugs have been available for a long time and boost neurotransmitters in a variety of ways. concerta adhd medication are available in many forms, including immediate-release and extended-release tablets or capsules. Some are taken orally, and some are given by injection. Most people take the extended-release versions of these drugs which last from the morning until evening and can aid in avoiding the "crash" that is often experienced after they have stopped taking an inactive stimulant medication that is short-acting.
Nonstimulants
They have less impact than stimulants, however they can help people focus and manage their behavior. These medicines may be prescribed by a doctor for adults and teens who don't get enough stimulation from stimulants or to enhance the effects of stimulants on children. Some of these medicines are antidepressants while others are blood pressure pills. They may take a couple of weeks to start working and they do not perform as effectively in isolation like stimulants do.
Behaviour therapy
Treatment options for those suffering from ADHD typically involve a mix of behaviour therapy and medication like family-based therapy or individual cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). Behaviour therapy is generally more effective than medication alone. For example, a family-based therapy programme involves parents and teachers teaching how to encourage positive behaviour and discourage negative behaviours in children suffering from ADHD. Individual CBT assists people who have ADHD to learn to alter their thinking patterns and to manage their issues better.
Behavioural therapy can be particularly beneficial for children in the early years of ADHD. It can help children develop skills to improve relationships with other children and deal with social challenges. It can also teach parents how to help their children's behavior and learning at home as well as at school.
Lifestyle changes
This could include dietary changes, such as cutting out foods high in sugar or contain artificial colours and flavors. There is no evidence to suggest that these diets will improve ADHD symptoms. Before modifying your child's diet, it's crucial to speak with a physician.
Drugs and adverse effects
All medicines can trigger side effects. However, most of them will disappear once your body has adapted to the medicine. Some of the side effects are severe and you should consult your doctor about them if you are concerned.
Psychoeducation is an educational program which can help children, teenagers and adults understand their ADHD and how to most effectively live with it. It can be useful for parents or caregivers who struggle to deal with their own issues when dealing with a child who has ADHD.