ADHD Medications - Add ADHD Stimulants to Your Treatments
Stimulants increase levels of brain chemicals that control behavior. Doctors often prescribe them to treat ADHD symptoms. They can also incorporate them in treatments for anxiety or depression.
Children and teens who don't take their ADHD medication typically experience more severe symptoms. That's why they need to know the importance of following doctors' instructions.
Stimulants
The most commonly used medication by healthcare providers to treat ADHD in children and adults is stimulants. They are used to increase the levels of neurotransmitters (chemicals) in the brain like dopamine or norepinephrine. This helps people focus and decreases impulsive behavior. Around 80% of people suffering from ADHD who are taking the right dosage experience less symptoms.
The majority of stimulants fall under the methylphenidate or amphetamine class of drugs and are FDA approved to treat ADHD. They are considered first-line treatments for the disorder because of years of research that has demonstrated high response rates with good tolerability and safety across the lifespan as well as a low incidence of adverse effects. They aren't habit-forming, and there is little evidence to suggest that they cause a substance abuse disorder. However, if they are used in higher-than-prescribed amounts, or by people who don't have ADHD, they can lead to serious side effects and even cause brain changes.
These drugs come in different forms or formulations. Methylphenidate pills are among the most frequently prescribed stimulant used to treat ADHD amphetamines and atomoxetine are both available.
Some long-acting versions of these drugs last for up to 16 hours, and can decrease the need for a daily evening or afternoon dose. They also help keep from the rapid changes in blood pressure and heart rates that are typical of shorter-acting stimulants. Some people who take these medications may have what is called a "crash" result when they stop the medication, which typically involves a very sharp decrease in energy and can be difficult to cope with.
These medications can cause other side effects, such as upset stomach or appetite suppression, as well as sleep issues. They can also cause dry mouth, mood changes, and sleep problems. In adhd without medication , stimulants may worsen tics. Children and adolescents who take ADHD medication experience an increase in eye blinking, or throat clearing. These symptoms are usually mild, and disappear when the body has adjusted to the medication. In rare instances, ADHD medications can delay growth in children and result in them being shorter than their peers.
Non-stimulant drugs take longer to get started, but they don't cause the same sudden bursts energy, and can help improve attention, focus and impulse control over time. They're not controlled substances, which means they are less likely to be abused or cause addiction disorders. However, some people may find they can have a "crash" or rebound effect when they abruptly stop taking them.
Because ADHD can be a complex condition healthcare professionals typically prescribe multiple medications and track the body's reactions to make sure they are receiving the right amount. This is especially true if the healthcare provider is treating a comorbid condition like depression or anxiety. It is important for a person with ADHD to consult regularly with a psychiatrist on an ongoing basis until they find the correct combination of medication and dosage. Talkiatry, an online psychiatry service that can match you with a provider in a matter of days, can help you find a psychiatrist who can assess your mental health. They can also help you decide if you should add ADHD medication.