ADHD Medications
Medications play an important role in the treatment of ADHD symptoms. They balance neurotransmitters within the brain to reduce symptoms.
Stimulants, such as methylphenidate (Ritalin) or amphetamines (Adderall, Eveko, Daytrana) are the most frequently prescribed medications used to treat ADHD. I Am Psychiatry boost dopamine levels and improve attention and focus.
The side effects of stimulants are stomach upset, changes in blood pressure or heartbeat and the tics.
Stimulants
Stimulants boost your brain's function and make you more alert and energetic. When taken as prescribed stimulants can aid in reducing ADHD symptoms. However, every person reacts differently and suffer different side effects. If your child is taking stimulants, they'll need visit their doctor regularly for examinations and to alter the dosage if necessary.
The most popular stimulants for treating ADHD are methylphenidates. This includes Ritalin and generic versions. Amphetamines such as Adderall or Dexedrine have a greater impact than methylphenidates. These drugs can raise the heart rate of your child or you, and may lead to addiction in some cases. They can also cause insomnia and raise blood pressure, which is why these medications are not recommended for people with a history or heart disease.
Side effects of stimulants can include sleep issues, appetite suppression, jitters headaches, as well as behavioral relapse (a sudden return of symptoms after the medication has wore off). They can also trigger or worsen psychosis, such as hostility, aggression as well as depression, anxiety, and paranoia. At the doses prescribed for treating ADHD, they are not in any way habit-forming, but they are misused by adolescents and young people who utilize them to aid in studying or as energy boosters.
Certain people with ADHD respond well to amphetamines or methylphenidate that have an extended release. Another newer medicine, lisdexamfetamine, is also effective. The drugs release the medication slowly over a long period of time. This helps avoid the fluctuations caused by fluctuating levels of medication within your body. It also reduces the risk of rebound-related effects, if ADHD symptoms reappear after the drug has worn off.
Other medications are also available to treat ADHD. They do not contain stimulants, and they have lower levels of abuse and addiction. They are often more efficient in treating ADHD in people without a psychiatric condition, but have negative side effects that are difficult to manage for children at school or in social settings.
If your child is prescribed ADHD medication, it is important to take them every day at the same time. Some children may require reminders from teachers or a parents, while some require reminders in their calendars. It may take some trial and error before you find the dosage and medication that is most suitable for your child. Additionally, they should be seen by their doctor on a regular basis to assess how well the medication is working. Children suffering from ADHD must develop coping skills in order to deal with their symptoms. This includes time management and planning. It is also important to teach them to seek help whenever they require it. Certain children with ADHD require therapy to help them build the skills they need to be successful at school and in life. Insurance typically covers these therapies. The best treatment can make a huge an impact on your child's and your own quality of life.