5 Conspiracy Theories About Medication For ADHD You Should Stay Clear Of
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Medication For ADHD - What Are the Side Effects?
Many people who suffer from ADHD have their symptoms improved through medication. Every person's reaction is different, and side effects can be a problem.
Methylphenidate is a stimulant. It works by increasing levels of a chemical in the brain that helps control behavior and attention.
Stimulant drugs
Stimulant medication can improve attention and concentration for 70 to 80% children and adults that take it. They work by altering the activity of neurotransmitters that are essential in the brain, like dopamine and norepinephrine. They typically cause an initial increase in blood pressure and heart rate which lasts for a long time. This is why many experts recommend that people begin with a low dose and gradually increase to the recommended dosage over a period of weeks.
Stimant medication is administered by mouth, usually once or twice a day. There are both short-acting and long-acting versions of most stimulants. Short-acting stimulating drugs peak within a few hours and must be taken twice a day. Long-acting stimulants last for 8 to 12 hours and are only taken once a week.
These drugs can cause unwanted adverse side effects like insomnia, loss of appetite and nausea. Some people may become irritable or moody. However the effects typically disappear over time and are able to be controlled by altering the dosage. In some instances, stimulants can cause changes in personality, for example being withdrawn, unfocused or becoming more rigid and obsessive. They can also increase the risk of other mental health problems, including mania and depression.
Most stimulants are controlled substances and require a prescription to be obtained. Adults and adolescents use these substances to boost performance. They may become addicted when they aren't used properly or as prescribed. Due to these risks, doctors must carefully assess the need for stimulant medication and be aware of the dosage and any adverse effects.
Non-stimulant medications
There are a variety of non-stimulant ADHD medications, and the one that is most appropriate for you is based on your personal requirements. These medications do not affect the same brain chemicals as stimulants do. Non-stimulants cause less adverse effects, but they can take longer to act and last only 24 hours. The majority of these drugs work by increasing norepinephrine levels in the brain. This includes antidepressants, such as bupropion (Wellbutrin) nortriptyline and Pamelor.
Psychotherapy
Talk therapy can help someone learn how to manage symptoms and develop new coping strategies, such as controlling impulsivity and stress. BetterHelp is a service that provides online therapy, matches people to licensed therapists trained in treating ADHD and other mental conditions. Take a free assessment and you'll be matched with a therapist in as little as 48 hours. Stimulant and non-stimulant medication can help those with ADHD improve their ability to concentrate and reduce impulsivity, but they don't address some of the underlying causes of the disorder. Cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness can be utilized in conjunction with therapy to help people learn how to control their impulsive behavior. These techniques can be learned through an ADHD coach or by experimenting with a qualified therapist. Parents and caregivers can be taught these techniques to assist their child or adult suffering from ADHD. In some cases read more the combination of medication and therapy could be the most effective approach.