10 Simple Ways To Figure Out Your Medication For ADHD

Medication For ADHD – What Are the Side Effects? Many people with ADHD have their symptoms improved by taking medication. Each person's reaction to drugs is different, and side effects can be a problem. Methylphenidate belongs to a class of medications called stimulants. It is a stimulant that increases levels of a chemical within the brain that helps control the attention span and behavior. Stimulant medications Stimulant medications enhance attention and concentration in 70 to 80percent of adults and children who use them. They work by altering neurotransmitters, such as norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. Typically, they cause an initial increase in heart rate and blood pressure that lasts for several hours. This is why many experts recommend that people begin with a low dose and gradually increase to the appropriate dose over a period of weeks. adhd anxiety medication is taken by mouth, usually at least once or twice per day. Most are available in both short- and long-acting formulas. Short-acting stimulants are most effective after a short time and are required to be taken three times a day. Long-acting stimulants last between 8 and 12 hours and are taken only once a day. These drugs can trigger unwanted side effects, including insomnia, nausea, and loss of appetite. Some people may become irritable or moody. However the effects typically disappear over time and are able to be controlled by changing the dosage. In some instances, stimulants may change your personality. You could become more introverted or irritable, or even more obsessive and rigid. They may also raise the risk of developing other psychiatric problems, including depression and mania. Most stimulants are controlled drugs and require prescription. Adults and adolescents abuse them to enhance performance. They can become addicted when they aren't utilized in a proper manner or according to the prescription. Due to these dangers, doctors must be careful to evaluate the need for stimulant medication and to monitor dosage and effects. Non-stimulant medications There are many non-stimulant ADHD medication options, and the one that's most appropriate for you is based on your personal needs. These medications don't affect the same brain chemicals as stimulants do. Non-stimulants have fewer negative effects, but take longer to work and last for 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 Therapy can assist a person in learning how to cope with symptoms and develop new coping skills like controlling impulsivity and stress. BetterHelp, an online therapy platform, matches people with licensed therapists who are trained to treat ADHD and other mental health disorders. Take a free assessment and you'll be connected with a therapist in just a few hours. The use of stimulants or non-stimulants can help those with ADHD reduce their impulsivity and increase their ability to focus however they don't solve the root cause. Cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness can be combined with therapy to help people learn how to control their impulse-driven behavior. These techniques can be taught by an ADHD coach, or practiced with a certified therapist. Parents and caregivers can learn these techniques to assist their child or adult who suffers from ADHD. In certain instances the combination of medications and talk therapy is the best approach.