Why We Do We Love Adhd Treatment Without Medication (And You Should, Too!)
How to Choose the Best ADHD Medication
Medications can help relieve ADHD symptoms by increasing the levels of an neurotransmitter known as norepinephrine within the brain.
Stimulants are among the most popular medication prescribed to children with ADHD.
They come in long- and short-acting dosages. They are recommended to take longer-acting doses, as they last 8-12 hours and are required to be taken just once a day. They also minimize the effects of rebound, where symptoms return, often worse than before, as the drug wears off.
Stimulants
ADHD medical professionals typically prescribe stimulants. They boost the levels neurotransmitters (chemicals) in your brain, namely norepinephrine and dopamine. This helps you concentrate and pay attention.
The risk of experiencing side effects is high when stimulants are used for a long time. Discuss with your doctor the potential side effects of these medications, including changes in your mood, appetite, heart rate, and how they affect your sleep.
You could be at risk of developing addiction or misuse if you are using stimulant medication for a long period of time. Addiction is when you feel you are unable to resist the urge to use a stimulant, even if it has adverse side effects. The signs of addiction include taking more than what your doctor recommends and feeling dependent on a drug or experiencing negative side effects.
Other health issues that could be caused by the use of stimulant drugs include depression and suicidal ideation. If you suspect that you or someone else you know might be using these substances to harm them or others, please contact your local police department or other authorities immediately.
Amphetamines (brand-name Ritalin, Concerta, or Dexamphetamine) are among the most frequently-used stimulants used to treat ADHD. Amphetamines are available in immediate-release (short-acting) or extended-release (intermediate-acting) tablets, capsules or liquids. They are usually taken once or twice daily.
The amphetamines with a longer-acting action perform better than their shorter-acting counterparts. They last from six to eight hours, and assist you in navigating your day with fewer "ups and downs."
It is common to use extended-release stimulants with an immediate-release medication during the mid-to-late afternoon. This is a good option if your ADHD symptoms begin to show up late in the day or if you notice that you are experiencing irritation due to the medication fading early.
To aid you in falling asleep, a small dose of a long-acting stimulant could be taken prior to bedtime. Do not take adhd for adults medication in the absence of hunger. It could cause sleep problems and loss of energy.
In the initial phases of treatment, insomnia is an extremely common side effect of stimulants. This can be prevented by not taking the medication prior to bedtime and taking enough sleep on a regular basis.
Another side effect associated with stimulants is anxiety. It can range from moderate to severe and could cause tics. These are sudden movements or sound like eye blinking, throat clearing or throat clearing. It can also contribute to a history of depression or bipolar disorder.
Changes in heart rate and blood pressure are also possible, though the effects are usually mild. Your doctor can prescribe a medication to lower your blood pressure and improve the function of your heart when you begin using stimulants for ADHD.
Insomnia is also a potential adverse effect of ADHD medication. This issue can be cured if you take stimulants with prescription sleep aids , or when you employ meditation or relaxation techniques prior to going to sleep.