Does ADHD Medication Work?
When someone is given ADHD medication, they worry about how long the medication will last and whether it will be effective. Here are some simple solutions.
Stimulants alter brain chemicals that send messages regarding attention and activity. They include dopamine and norepinephrine. They are the first line of treatment for adults with ADHD.
1. Stimulants
Stimulants are among the most commonly prescribed medications for managing ADHD. They alter the neurotransmitters (like dopamine) in the brain, which helps people focus and remain organized. About 80% of ADHD adults and children experience improved symptoms once they find the right stimulant and dose.
When prescribed by a doctor and if taken as directed, these drugs are not addictive. But when they are abused (like when they are snorted or injected) or taken by people without ADHD they could create addiction and other mental health problems.
There are a myriad of amphetamine and methylphenidate medicines that healthcare professionals utilize to treat ADHD. Most doctors begin with a small dose the medication, then increase it gradually until the patient is able control their symptoms. Stimulant medicines are also available in many different forms from tablets to extended-release to rapid-acting.
Side effects of stimulant medications are not uncommon, however they usually disappear after a few weeks or if your doctor and you adjust the dosage. Common side effects of stimulants are diminished appetite, weight loss or change in appetite, difficulty going to sleep, increased heart rate and irritability as well as sadness.
Most stimulant medication is safe for most healthy people It's still important to avoid illegal drugs and supplements that claim to treat ADHD. Only doctors and specific healthcare professionals can prescribe these medications. In addition, supplements like omega-3 fish oils and melatonin aren't scientifically proven to decrease ADHD symptoms.
If you or your child suffers new side effects after starting the medication, it's vital to speak with your physician or psychiatrist. It could be an indication that the medication isn't doing its job, or that you are suffering from other health issues that need attention.
It is essential to take the medication each day at the same time. This will help reduce ADHD symptoms. Some families prefer to continue taking stimulant medications after their child has stopped showing symptoms however this isn't recommended for everyone. It is possible to break from stimulants, particularly for teens, to see how their brains function and help them learn to cope with ADHD.
2. Non-stimulants
Stimulant medications are among the most well-established methods of ADHD treatment. It works for 70 to 80% children and adults and can improve their ability to concentrate and pay attention. It also helps control their impulsive behavior. These drugs work by increasing the levels of certain chemicals, called neurotransmitters, within the brain. Through the increase of dopamine and norepinephrine, the medications help to manage ADHD symptoms such as a short attention span and impulsive behavior. These medications come in various tablet and liquid forms and include immediate-release formulations which can be consumed up to three times per day for an immediate boost in focus and extended-release tablets that function throughout the day.
The newest non-stimulant medications are not as effective as stimulants, but they are safe for most people. These medications are available as chewables and capsules. They can also be added to food and drinks for children who have difficulties swallowing pills. Atomoxetine is also referred to as Strattera is the first nonstimulant approved for ADHD treatment. It's a selective reuptake of norepinephrine inhibitor that boosts the amount of norepinephrine found in the brain, and is also used to treat depression.
It can take a while to find the right dosage and the right formulation for everyone. Be patient and consult your doctor when you or your child is having issues with the medication.
You may also need to test different medications, or switch between stimulants and non-stimulants if you're not getting the best results from one. It's important to talk with your psychiatrist about any other medical issues you or your child suffers from, any other medications you're taking (including prescription medications) and what you're eating or drinking.
You should also have your blood pressure checked before starting or changing your ADHD medication. It's often found that methylphenidate-based drugs, such as Adderall and Ritalin, can cause a slight increase in blood pressure in some people. Some people have to stop taking their medications during vacations or during holidays, and resume taking it after returning to school or at home. Getting regular exercise can also help improve your attention, and may reduce risky behaviors linked to ADHD.
3. Other medication
The majority of ADHD medications require a prescription. Doctors must be able to monitor patients to determine the proper dosage and drug type. Teachers and parents can be asked to fill out behavioral rating scales and also monitor the person's reaction to medication.
Stimulant drugs are typically the first treatment option for kids and adults with ADHD. They work by increasing the levels of neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, improving attention and decreasing fatigue. They help 70 to 80 percent of adults and children with ADHD, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. They can help reduce fidgeting, interrupting, or forgetting things, reduce impulse-driven behaviors such as jumping, running, and shouting, and can improve social skills and school performance. They also can lower heart rate and blood pressure. The majority of stimulant medications are both short-acting (that lasts from 4 to 6 hours) as well as long-acting (that can last for up to 12 hours).
Nonstimulant medications do not increase brain's chemicals, norepinephrine and dopamine but they help reduce symptoms in approximately 50% of people with ADHD. They can boost mood, focus and help with the impulsive behavior. They can also help improve relationships and decrease aggression. They include atomoxetine also known as Strattera (brand name) and viloxazine also known as Qelbree (brandname). These medications can be used in conjunction with stimulants.
A small percentage of children and adults who take stimulant drugs might become depressed, zombie-like or tearful or irritable. If this occurs it is because the dose is excessive and should be adjusted.
ADHD can be treated with a range of medications. It may require several trials and error to determine the one that works best for your child or you. does adhd medication work must be taken regularly for it to be effective. If a person stops taking the medication, ADHD symptoms will return. The commitment to medication is for life, and it takes time to find the right dosage and drug that provides the best results with the fewest side negative effects.
4. Behavioral treatments
Many people with ADHD don't find that medication eliminates all of their symptoms. Therapy for behavioral issues can assist them in managing their symptoms and improve their daily functioning. In addition, it can improve their relationships with others, enhance confidence and self-esteem, and increase their confidence.
Behavioral therapies are typically used in conjunction with ADHD medication. This multi-component treatment approach provides the best outcomes for children with ADHD. Combining behavior management with medication is more effective than either method on its own.
Therapists work with the child to help him develop new skills that will help him deal with his ADHD symptoms. Often this involves teaching them strategies for organizing their lives and the reduction of distractions. This may also include teaching them how to cope in the event of emotional distress, such mindfulness meditation and emotional regulation. Behavioral therapy for ADHD is typically delivered in groups. This lets therapists help and strengthen multiple children at the same time, increasing the chances that a child will successfully complete the program.
The therapist will also assist parents in teaching how to reinforce positive behavior. They will teach them how to reward good behavior and apply discipline when necessary. They will also teach them about time management, goal setting and planning. Therapists may also suggest a chart that children can earn points for completing tasks. The therapist may have to introduce negative consequences, such as losing points, if the child is not able to keep up on their obligations.
If you are not able to respond to medication could benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). This kind of therapy focuses primarily on changing the way the person perceives their problems. It also helps to manage their emotions better and decrease impulse-driven behaviors.
Behavioral therapies are generally cheaper than prescription drugs. However, they can take longer to produce results. If symptoms do not improve after a certain time frame, it's essential to talk with your doctor about the reason that is making them worse. It could be that the child is not taking their medication correctly or the dosage should be increased. It could be that life events are creating stress, which makes it harder for the child to concentrate. CHADD and its National Resource Center, ADDA and the ADDitude Directory all have find-a-therapist features that will give a list of therapists who offer CBT.