Medication For ADHD - What Are the Side Effects?
Many people suffering from ADHD experience improvements in their symptoms by taking medication. But each person reacts differently to different medications and the adverse reactions can be problematic.
Methylphenidate belongs to a class of drugs referred to as stimulants. It works by increasing levels of a chemical within the brain that aids in controlling attention and behavior.
Stimulant medication
Stimulant medications enhance attention and concentration in 70 to 80% of adults and children who take them. They affect neurotransmitters, such as norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. They usually cause an initial rise in blood pressure and heart rate that lasts for several hours. Because of this, many experts recommend that people begin with a low dose and gradually increase to the optimal dose over the course of weeks.
Stimant medications are taken by mouth, typically once or twice a day. They are generally available in long- and short-acting formulas. Short-acting stimulants peak after a few hours and should be taken 3 times a day. Long-acting stimulants last between 8 and 12 hours and are taken only once per day.
These medications can trigger unwanted side effects such as nausea, insomnia and nausea. They can also make people feel irritable or moody, but these effects generally disappear over time and are often managed by adjusting the dosage. In some instances, stimulants may change your personality. You might become more withdrawn and sluggish, or obsessive and rigid. adhd medications for adults can also increase the risk of developing other mental disorders, including depression and mania.
Most stimulants are controlled substances and require prescriptions to be obtained. They are frequently misused by adolescents and adults to achieve performance enhancement, and can result in addiction if used in a way that is not prescribed. Due to these risks, doctors are very cautious in assessing the need for stimulant medication and to monitor the dosage and side effects carefully.
Non-stimulant drugs
There are many non-stimulant ADHD medications available, and the one that's most appropriate for you is based on your specific requirements. These prescription drugs do not alter the same brain chemicals as stimulants do. Non-stimulants are less likely have negative side effects, but they can take longer to effect and last only for 24 hours. Most of them work by increasing the levels of norepinephrine in the brain. They also include antidepressants like bupropion (Wellbutrin) and nortriptyline (Aventyl and Pamelor).
Psychotherapy
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 offers therapy online, matches people to licensed therapists with expertise in treating ADHD and other mental conditions. You can take a no-cost assessment and get connected with a therapist in as little as 48 hours. Non-stimulant or stimulant medications can help those with ADHD reduce impulsivity and improve their ability to concentrate, but they do not address the underlying causes. In addition to talking therapy, cognitive behavior therapy and mindfulness-based therapies can teach a person techniques to control the impulsive behavior of their children and increase their ability to manage their emotions. These techniques can be learned through an ADHD coach or through practice with a qualified therapist. Parents and caregivers can learn these methods to help their child or adult who suffers from ADHD. In some cases it is suggested to combine medication and talk therapy may be the best approach.