15 Things You've Never Known About ADHD Medication
ADHD Medicine For Kids Some children require more than one ADHD medicine to get the best results. Children should take their medications on a regular schedule. Stimulant medicines work to aid normal brain chemicals in improving concentration and control of impulses. They are available in liquid form, extended-release capsules, or pill form. The doctor will start you with a low dosage and then monitor your reaction to the medication. Methylphenidate Methylphenidate, a stimulant, aids in reducing ADHD symptoms and can also be used to treat narcolepsy. It does this by increasing the levels of dopamine in the brain, which boosts concentration and improves mood. It is a controlled substance which means it is only available with a prescription and must be prescribed by a physician. Methylphenidate can be taken as capsules or tablets, either as an oral solution, or as transdermal patches. The kind of methylphenidate prescribed will depend on the doctor's diagnosis and other aspects. Methylphenidate can cause adverse reactions such as a headache or stomachache, a dry mouth, a fast heartbeat, shakiness and anxiety. It may also trigger facial tics in some people who experience abrupt movements of the muscles in the face that aren't controlled. This occurs in less than 1 in 100 people who take methylphenidate however, it is important to inform your doctor immediately in the event that you or your child starts experiencing this problem. It can also cause an increase in heartbeat and blood pressure that your doctor will closely watch while you are taking it. Some people might also experience a skin reaction, like a rash, which is swollen, itchy or blistered. It may affect blood flow to the fingers and feet (Raynaud’s disease). This is a serious condition and needs immediate treatment in hospital. In general, methylphenidate can be considered safe by the majority of people when taken according to the directions. However, it can cause a significant reduction in blood pressure in the event that the dosage is too high or used too frequently. It can also make you feel dizzy and shaky, so it's not recommended that you drive or operate machinery when you take it. Methylphenidate has been classified as a Schedule II substance, meaning that it can be abused. It is also a habit-forming drug in some people, so you should be wary to share your medication with anyone else. The best way to stop this from happening is to keep your methylphenidate in a locked cabinet and only take the dosage prescribed by your physician. Amphetamines Amphetamines, a class of medications, are used to treat ADHD in children and adolescents as well as adults. They help by increasing levels of certain brain chemicals, improving concentration, and aiding in the ability to manage the behavior of impulsiveness. They are also able to treat some of the symptoms of Tourette's syndrome. These medications are available in the form of immediate-release tablets, extended-release capsules as well as an oral solution. In the UK they are controlled medicines (class C) which means that you must be enrolled by your doctor to collect these medications. Most people will take them one time each week, however some people may take them twice. Atomoxetine is a selective noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor. It functions in a different manner to other stimulant medicines and is available to children and teenagers over the age of 5 if it's inaccessible to use methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine, or for adults if the condition is identified in this group. It is typically taken as a capsule, every day, either once or twice. The use of stimulants is common. It's important to keep your child's or teen's medication secure, out of sight and reach from friends, and not shared or sold to other people. When you use the medication in the wrong manner such as crushing it and injecting it, is extremely hazardous and even life-threatening. Some street drugs are based on amphetamines' structure such as methamphetamine and MDMA (ecstasy). Amphetamines can trigger addiction and have side effects that are difficult to deal with particularly in older people. They may include feelings of extreme exhaustion, irritability, cravings and a desire take more. If you or your child experiences any of these side effects speak to your doctor as soon as possible. If you or your child are taking long-acting stimulants, it's important to be aware of the risk of a sudden decrease in blood pressure once the drug is stopped. Contact triple zero (000), an ambulance immediately if this occurs. This could be extremely dangerous and could lead to an attack on the heart, stroke or death. Talking with your doctor can aid you in managing the effects of reducing or stopping the dosage, and give you support and advice. Long-acting stimulants Many people who suffer from ADHD discover that stimulants can aid in staying focused, finish tasks and enhance their relationships. It is not for everyone to take this kind of medication. The adverse effects, like anxiety and heart palpitations and the negative impact on sleep and appetite are usually uncomfortable. adhd treatment without medication can keep people from taking the medicines they require. There are many ways to alleviate these adverse effects. Your doctor may lower the dose of your medicine or switch you to a different medication, and self-help techniques can be a huge help. The majority of people who take an ADHD medication must be monitored by an expert in medical care. It takes up to a month before the medication takes its full effect, so it's crucial to find the appropriate dosage. The doctor will inquire about your daily routine and habits, as well as any other health issues you or your child might be suffering from. Concerta, Focalin, Ritalin SR and Vyvanse are a few of the most popular long-acting stimulants. They belong to a class of drugs known as methylphenidates and have been around for a long time. Some are sold as liquids and chewable tablets, while others are available as skin patches for kids who don't want to swallow pills. Adderall, Dexedrine and other amphetamine-based ADHD medications are also available. These are more powerful and last longer than methylphenidates. They can be used in a variety of ways, including powder for children who are too young to take pills. Some kids prefer to take these medicines in combination with juice or milk. Strattera (atomoxetine) and Qelbree (viloxazine) are psychostimulants that have a long-lasting effect but are not in the amphetamine or methylphenidate groups. They are in a group of drugs known as selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors and are able to increase the levels of a brain chemical known as norepinephrine. They also help reduce the symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity. Other medications Non-stimulant medications can be prescribed in cases where stimulants do not work or cause unwanted side effects. These medications can take longer to kick in however they can enhance your ability focus and control impulses. They can also help to reduce depression and anxiety, which may sometimes occur along with ADHD. Doctors might also suggest therapy to teach you skills to manage your symptoms and improve your behavior. They may suggest that you stay away from certain drinks, foods or activities known to cause problems for those who suffer from ADHD. Stimulants alter the levels of two chemical brain-based messengers, norepinephrine and dopamine. Norepinephrine aids in concentration, and dopamine reinforces this concentration. There are 12 medications that have been approved to treat ADHD. These include methylphenidate hydrochloride, lisdexamfetamine dimesylate, amphetamine sulfate, dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride/serdexmethylphenidate chloride, mixed amphetamine salts and atomoxetine (Strattera). Atomoxetine is the first drug to be approved as a nonstimulant for adults suffering from ADHD. It is a selective norepinephrine receptor inhibitor, which means it increases the amount of norepinephrine found in the brain. Other drugs in this group include guanfacine hydrochloride (Tenex and Intuniv) and clonidine hydrochloride (Catapres). Antidepressants are also prescribed by doctors to increase dopamine levels in the brain. Bupropion is most commonly prescribed as an antidepressant to treat adult ADHD. It is usually prescribed “off-label” to treat ADHD when it occurs alongside depression or substance use disorders, particularly cannabis and nicotine addiction. Some experts think that there is a link between mood and ADHD and antidepressants could be helpful in treating ADHD symptoms as well as improving your mood. The NHS suggests speaking with your GP before taking these drugs. If your GP decides that medication is suitable for you, they will prescribe a dose and begin with small doses, which they will gradually increase over the course of a few weeks. Your GP will monitor your health regularly to ensure the treatment is effective and to look for any side effects that might develop. They might also refer you to specialists, such as a psychologist or a counsellor, for additional support.