ADHD Medication - How Ritalin Helps Kids Manage ADHD
ADHD medication can make a huge difference in helping kids manage their symptoms. Doctors prescribe two types of drugs to treat ADHD: stimulants and non-stimulants.
Stimulants increase the amounts of two brain chemicals--norepinephrine and dopamine--that help kids focus. These medications are a first-choice option for children and teenagers with ADHD.
Long-acting stimulant formulations
Many people suffering from ADHD begin treatment by taking stimulant medications. They are highly effective at improving attention and concentration for 70-80% of people who have ADHD. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends starting with an FDA-approved medication. Only prescription medications are available and should be taken exactly according to the prescription. Over-the-counter (OTC) supplements or vitamins that are advertised to treat ADHD have no scientific backing and can result in harmful side effects when used in conjunction with prescription medications.
There are numerous long-acting stimulant formulations each with a unique delivery system and a different time-action profile. These medications provide clinicians with the ability to determine the specific times of the day at which patients are most impaired. For instance, patients who have trouble completing morning tasks can benefit from long-acting stimulants such as Dexedrine Spansules, Dextroamphetamine/AMPH patch (Xelstrym), or the newer extended-release oral medication Mydayis (lisdexamfetamine).
Long-acting ADHD medications enter the bloodstream slower and are less likely to cause adverse effects than short-acting ADHD medications. They last between 8 and 16 hours depending on the dosage. The longer time frame also allows the medication to have a a more consistent effect throughout the day which makes them a great choice for adults.
Some of the possible side effects of long-acting ADHD medications are changes in appetite, upset stomach and an increase in heart rate. Other possible side effects include tics and a minor growth retardation however, these are generally only temporary and tend to go away after a few days or even weeks as the body adjusts to the medicine.
Methylphenidate is the most commonly used long-acting ADHD medication. It is the active ingredient in Ritalin and similar medications, and it is able to increase the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. These neurotransmitters are important chemical messengers that play an important role in motivation, action, and cognition.
The most well-known stimulant medications for ADHD include amphetamines, methylphenidates, and atomoxetine. All of these medications are classified as "methylphenidates," although some are formulated differently. Certain are absorbed into the body through the skin, while others are taken orally or administered intravenously.
Short-acting stimulant formulations
There are a variety of stimulant drugs that can be used to treat ADHD in adults. They include all forms of methylphenidate, such as Ritalin, Focalin and Metadate, as well as amphetamines like Adderall, Dexedrine and Vyvanse. A doctor can also prescribe atomoxetine which performs a bit different from stimulants and can last a bit longer. There are even some atypical antidepressants that work well to control ADHD symptoms, for instance Wellbutrin (bupropion) and the two antihypertensives Catapres and Tenex (clonidine).
Stimulant medication works by increasing neurotransmitter levels in the brain. This improves concentration and decrease restlessness in children and adults with ADHD. The medication also reduces hyperactivity and impulsivity. However stimulants can cause negative side effects, such as dry mouth and blurred vision. They can also increase irritability, anxiety and appetite in certain people. Some people have trouble sleeping while taking them.
The "rebound effect" is a condition that occurs when the drug's effects are fading is a major issue. There are some who suffer from high blood pressure or heart rate when taking these drugs. When prescribed by a doctor, however, these drugs are safe and effective for adults.
The most effective stimulant medication to take by those suffering from ADHD is a morning dose prior to going to work or school. These are called long-acting stimulants. This form of drug can help avoid a rebound effect and may decrease symptoms in the afternoon and evening as well.
Other types of the medication can be taken throughout the day when needed. Short-acting tablets are absorbed quickly and reach their peak in the body. People who require regular doses may have to take more than one tablet every day. This can be inconvenient for people with ADHD.
Stimulants are the most well-known and widely used treatment for ADHD in children, adolescents and adults. They are the most effective drugs to reduce ADHD symptoms. However, they can cause serious and life-threatening adverse effects if taken in the wrong way or with excessive dosages. They can also increase your risk of developing depression and other mental health disorders.
Nonstimulant drugs
If stimulant medications such as Ritalin don't work, or have intolerable adverse effects, nonstimulant drugs are a viable option to treat ADHD symptoms. These drugs are less addictive and more resistant to abuse than stimulants. They work by increasing levels of the brain chemical norepinephrine. Psychiatrists or doctors who specialize in mental health are the most likely to prescribe these medications. They are often employed in conjunction with other treatments like psychosocial treatment or lifestyle changes.
Nonstimulant medications may take longer to begin working than stimulants. They may also require a greater dose to achieve the same degree of effectiveness. They are typically prescribed in a tablet or capsule form and are taken with or without food. They are more likely than other medications to cause stomach upset or alter blood pressure and heart rate. They are also at an increased chance of developing a drug interaction with other drugs.
Certain ADHD medications can be applied as patches on the skin. They are beneficial for those who are unable to remember to take their medication or have trouble swallowing tablets. These patches are also beneficial for children who are tactilely-sensitive and dislike taking medicine through the mouth. The patch is only useful for children who are able to apply it continuously.
Finding the right combination of dosage, schedule, and medication will take time. It's important to communicate clearly and openly with a health professional about the way your child or you respond to the medication. Keep a record of your symptoms or the symptoms of your child, as well as any changes in medication.
There are always some side effects when taking any medication. This includes stomach upset, trouble sleeping, increased heart rate, and weight loss in certain people. Children and adolescents who take stimulant medications may notice a decrease in their growth rate, but this is not usually significant. Some individuals might experience tics or anxiety. A small percentage of people experience a severe reaction to the medication.
Consult a doctor as quickly when you or your child develop serious symptoms. Only take the medication as directed by your physician. If you've got leftover medication, consult your pharmacist about taking back prescription drugs or mix it with cat litter or coffee grounds and eliminate it.
Antidepressants
Many people who receive stimulant medication for ADHD also use an antidepressant or nonstimulant medication. visit these guys can have a calming effect and may help to control certain side effects of stimulants, like an increase in appetite or trouble sleeping. Nonstimulant drugs are less likely to trigger depression. They can also be helpful in treating bipolar disorder, which can be associated with ADHD.
Stimulants that are used to treat ADHD can be misused and even abused. Teens and kids who do not suffer from ADHD might use these to boost their alertness or to reduce their appetite to lose weight. Others might use them to get "high." Stimulants are Schedule I drugs with a high risk of addiction. When they are prescribed properly and taken by adults they don't increase the likelihood of addiction.
Methylphenidate, the most common medication used for ADHD, is a type of stimulant. It stimulates the activity of brain regions that control attention and behavior. It's available in immediate-release tablets (small doses taken 2 to 3 times a day) and modified-release tablets, which release the drug throughout the day. Also available in chewable and liquid form.
When stimulant medication is taken for ADHD Some people experience a brief period where they feel fatigued or depressed and become more active. This is known as the rebound effect. These symptoms can be reduced by altering the timing at which you take your medication, or by adjusting the dosage.
Intuniv, a long-acting medication that contains guanfacine for adults with ADHD is a different option. This blood pressure medication is a type alpha-2 adrenergic antagonist, has been shown to be effective in reducing hyperactivity among adults. It doesn't appear to be as effective in reducing the symptoms of inattention.
Finding the best ADHD medication for your child or you will take time. Your doctor will probably begin with small doses and gradually increase them to find a combination that controls your symptoms while causing the least number of adverse effects. You'll need to visit your GP regularly for regular checks and to determine if the dosage needs to be adjusted.