5 Clarifications On ADHD Medication
ADHD Medicine For Kids
Some children require multiple ADHD medicines to achieve the most effective results. Children should take their medicines regularly.
The stimulant drugs aid normal brain chemicals in improving concentration and control of impulses. They are available in liquid extended-release capsules or pills. The doctor will start you on a small dose and observe how you react to the drug.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate, a stimulant, helps to reduce ADHD symptoms. It can be used to treat narcolepsy. It boosts levels of dopamine, which can improve concentration and mood. It is a controlled substance which means it can only be purchased with a prescription and must be prescribed by a doctor. Methylphenidate comes in capsules, tablets oral solution, transdermal patches. The kind of methylphenidate prescribed will depend on the doctor's diagnosis and other factors.
Methylphenidate may cause adverse reactions such as a headache or stomachache, a dry mouth, a fast heartbeat, shakiness or anxiety. It may also trigger facial tics in certain people, which are sudden movements in the muscles of the face that can't be controlled. This is a problem that occurs in less than one out of 100 people taking methylphenidate. It is important to inform your doctor right away if your child or you are experiencing this type of problem. It can also increase the heart rate and blood pressure, which your doctor will monitor carefully while you take it. It may also trigger an allergic reaction to the skin in some people, such as a rash that's swollen and itchy, or raised or blistered, as well as a change in the way blood flows to the toes and fingers (Raynaud's disease). This is very serious and needs immediate treatment in hospital.
In general, methylphenidate is able to be considered safe by a majority of people if taken as directed. It can, however, cause a significant decrease in blood pressure in the event that the dose is too high or taken frequently. It may also cause people to feel dizzy or sleepy. It is not recommended to drive or operate machinery while taking it.
Methylphenidate has been classified as a Schedule II substance, meaning that it can be abused. It could also trigger addiction in certain people. It is best not to share your medication with anyone else. The best way to help prevent this is to keep your methylphenidate locked in a cabinet and only take the dosage prescribed by your physician.
Amphetamines
Amphétamines are commonly used to treat ADHD in adolescents, children, and adults. They help by increasing the levels of certain chemicals in the brain, improving concentration and helping to control impulsive behavior. They can also help with some Tourette's symptoms.
They are available as immediate-release tablets, extended-release capsules and an oral solution. In the UK they are regulated medicines (class C), which means that you have to be registered by your physician to receive them. 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, but may be offered to teenagers and children older than 5 if it's not possible to use methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine, or for adults if the condition is diagnosed in this group. It is usually taken as a capsule one or twice per day.
Many people abuse stimulant drugs. Keep your child's or teenager's medications out of away from the sight of their friends. They are not to be shared or sold. Taking the medication incorrectly, for example crushing and injecting it, is extremely hazardous and even life-threatening. Certain street drugs, like MDMA (ecstasy) and methamphetamine, are based on amphetamines.
Amphetamines are addictive and can have side effects that are difficult to manage particularly for people who are older. These side effects can include extreme fatigue and irritability. They could also include cravings for the drug, a desire to continue using the drug, and an extreme fatigue. Consult your physician if you or your child is experiencing any of these side effects.
If you or your child is taking long-acting stimulants it is important to be aware of the risk of a sudden drop in blood pressure when the drug is removed. Call triple zero (000), an ambulance immediately if this occurs. This is extremely risky and can lead to a heart attack, stroke or even death. Talking to your doctor can aid you in managing the effects of stopping or reducing the dosage, and provide support and advice.
Long-acting stimulants
Many people who suffer from ADHD discover that stimulants can aid in staying focused, complete tasks, and improve their relationships. It is not for everyone to use this kind of medication. And the side effectssuch as heart palpitations, anxiety and a negative effect on sleep and appetite -- are usually uncomfortable. These issues can stop people from taking the medicines they need.
There are methods to lessen these side effects. Your doctor may reduce the dosage of your medication or switch you to a different medication. Self-help strategies can make a big difference.
A majority of people who are taking an ADHD medication must be closely monitored by an expert in medical care. This is due to the fact that it can take anywhere from a few weeks to a month for the medication to have its full effect, and also because it is essential to find the right dosage for you. The doctor will inquire about your routine and habits, as well as any other health concerns you or your child might have.
Concerta, Focalin, Ritalin SR and Vyvanse are a few of the most popular stimulants with long-acting properties. They are part of a class of drugs known as methylphenidates and all of them have been in use for a long time. Some are available in liquid form and chewable tablets, while others are available as skin patches for kids who do not want to swallow pills.
Suggested Looking at , Dexedrine and other amphetamine-based ADHD medications are also available. They are more potent and longer-lasting effect than the methylphenidates, and they are available in various ways, such as powder form for younger children who aren't able to take pills. These medicines can be mixed with juice or milk to enhance their taste for certain children.
Strattera (atomoxetine) and Qelbree (viloxazine) are long-acting psychostimulants that are not in the amphetamine or methylphenidate groups. They belong to a class of drugs called 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 medicines
If the stimulants aren't working or have undesirable adverse effects, doctors may prescribe non-stimulant medications. These drugs take longer to effect, but can improve your ability focus and control impulses. They can also help reduce anxiety and depression, that can be a problem with ADHD. Doctors may also recommend therapy to assist you in managing your symptoms and improve your behavior or suggest that you avoid certain food drinks, food items, or other activities that can cause problems for people suffering from ADHD.
The effects of stimulants alter the levels of norepinephrine, and dopamine in your brain. Norepinephrine aids in concentration and dopamine enhances your 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 was the first medicine approved for adults with ADHD as a nonstimulant. It is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, which means that it increases the amount of norepinephrine found in the brain. Other drugs in this group are guanfacine hydrochloride (Tenex and Intuniv) and clonidine hydrochloride (Catapres).
Antidepressants can also be prescribed by medical professionals to increase the levels of dopamine in the mind. Bupropion is typically prescribed as an antidepressant to treat adult ADHD. It is prescribed "off-label", to treat ADHD when it occurs with depression or other substance abuse disorders, specifically nicotine addiction and cannabis.
There are some experts who believe there is a link between mood and ADHD. Antidepressants could be beneficial in treating ADHD symptoms as well as improving mood. The NHS recommends you speak with your GP prior to taking these medications.
If your GP decides that medication is suitable for you, they will prescribe a dose, and begin you on small doses which they will then gradually increase over the course of a few weeks. Your GP will monitor you regularly to make sure the treatment is effective and to look for any side effects that might occur. They can recommend you to a specialist like psychologist or counselor, to provide additional assistance.