17 Reasons You Shouldn't Ignore ADHD Medication
ADHD Medication Medication is often an integral part of an ADHD treatment program. The most commonly used stimulant drugs are methylphenidate and dextro-amphetamine. Each of these stimulant medicines has a variety of brand names and each has a distinct chemical composition. Stimulants boost brain chemicals that help transmit messages between neurons. These are the first medication that healthcare professionals usually test for adults with ADHD. Stimulants Stimulants are the primary medication that doctors prescribe for ADHD. They function by increasing levels of certain brain chemicals dopamine, norepinephrine, as well as norepinep. These chemicals help improve focus, reduce aggressive behavior, and increase peace. Doctors often use amphetamines (including methylphenidate) or atomoxetine, which belongs to a class of antidepressants referred to as selective norepinephrine receptor inhibitors to treat ADHD. Serious heart-related complications are rare however, doctors will examine patients with heart issues closely when they are taking stimulants. ADHD is typically treated most efficiently with stimulant medication especially for children and adolescents. These medications increase the brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine, which helps them concentrate and learn. They also boost energy levels and increase the amount of the state of being awake. Studies have proven that if taken as directed the drugs can dramatically improve school performance. However, see this fear that students who use stimulants for prolonged periods of time can develop a tolerance and begin to need more doses. They can also cause negative side effects such as changes in appetite, sleep issues and depression. Doctors who prescribe ADHD medication typically start with a low dosage and gradually increase it over the course of a few weeks. They'll ask parents and you to monitor the benefits and side effects of the medication. If the medication doesn't appear to be working or causes side effects you can't cope with, your doctor may try another medicine. The majority of kids and adults who take stimulant medications have at least a few side effects. Most of them are minor and disappear within several weeks or days as the body becomes accustomed to the medicine. Some of the more common side effects include weight loss, trouble sleeping, and a fast heart rate. Some studies have shown people who are taking stimulant drugs for ADHD are more likely to develop tics. These are repeated movements or sounds like eye blinking or throat clearing. But, these medications do not cause tics; they just make them more obvious. ADHD medications can also cause some changes in voice and headaches, stomach upset and, occasionally, raise or lower blood pressure or heart rate. A few nonstimulant medications—including Strattera (atomoxetine) and Qelbree (viloxazine)—have been approved by the FDA to treat ADHD. These drugs perform differently than stimulants. They increase the levels of norepinephrine – the brain chemical that helps to regulate attention and impulses. They can reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder. They are less harmful than stimulants, but they aren't as effective to treat ADHD symptoms. If you also have bipolar disorder or depression, your doctor may suggest that you try these medications. They might also suggest psychosocial therapy to help you manage the symptoms of ADHD and improve your overall quality of life.