Does ADHD Medication Work?
When someone gets a prescription for ADHD medication, they frequently think about whether the medication will work and how long it will last. Here are some straightforward answers.
Stimulants adjust brain chemicals that send messages regarding attention and activity. These include norepinephrine and dopamine. They are the first line of treatment for adults with ADHD.
1. Stimulants
Stimulants are commonly used to treat ADHD. They alter the neurotransmitters (like dopamine) in the brain to help people stay focused and organized. About 80% of ADHD children and adults experience improved symptoms once they find the right stimulant and dosage.
These drugs aren't addictive when prescribed by a doctor and taken in the prescribed manner. However, when they are misused (like when they are snorted or injected) or taken by people without ADHD they could create addiction and other mental health problems.
Healthcare professionals treat ADHD by using a variety of methylphenidate- and amphetamine-based medications. Most doctors start with a small dose of the medication, and then increase it gradually until the patient is able to manage their symptoms. Stimulant medicines are also available in a variety of forms, from tablets to extended-release and quick-acting.
adhd stimulant medication of experiencing side effects is a normal aspect of taking stimulant medication however, they tend to disappear after the first few weeks of treatment, or when you and your physician adjust the dosage. Some of the side effects of stimulants include weight loss, decreased appetite loss or a change in appetite. They may also cause difficulty sleeping, an increased heart rate, irritation, or sadness.
Most stimulant medicines are safe for healthy people. However it is essential to stay clear of illegal drugs or vitamins that claim to treat ADHD. These medications are only prescribed by doctors and specific healthcare providers. Supplements like melatonin, omega-3 fish oil have not been shown to reduce ADHD symptoms.
It's crucial to talk to your doctor if you or your child is experiencing new side effects as a result of the use of a stimulant. It could be an indication that the medicine isn't doing its job or that you have other health problems that need attention.
It's also important to take the medication at the same time every day to ensure that it is most likely to have the greatest chance of reducing ADHD symptoms. Some families prefer to continue taking stimulant drugs after their child has stopped showing symptoms, but this is not necessary for everyone. It is possible to break from stimulants, particularly for teens, to see how their brains work and to help them learn how to deal with ADHD.
2. Non-stimulants
Stimulant medications have been used for many years to treat ADHD. It works for 70 to 80 percent of adults and children, and can help improve their ability to focus and pay attention. It can also help manage impulsive behavior. These drugs work by increasing the levels of certain chemicals, referred to as neurotransmitters in the brain. These drugs increase dopamine and norepinephrine levels which help manage ADHD symptoms such as short attention spans and impulsive behavior. They are available in a variety of liquid and tablet formulations that include immediate-release formulations that are taken twice to three times daily for quick focus boosts and extended-release tablets that work throughout the day.
The newest nonstimulant medications might be less effective than stimulants, but are generally safe for most people. They are available in capsules and chewables. They can also be added to food and drinks for children who have difficulty swallowing pills. Atomoxetine is also known as Strattera, is the first nonstimulant to be approved for ADHD treatment. It is a selective norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitor that increases the amount of norepinephrine in the brain. It is also employed to treat depression.
It can take a while to determine the appropriate dosage and formulation for everyone. Be patient and talk with your physician about any concerns you or your child may have with the medication.
It's also possible to try different medications, or switch between stimulants and non-stimulants if you're not seeing the best results with one. Talk to your physician any other medical issues you or your child might have, and any other medication (including prescription drugs) as well as the food or drinks you consume.
Before you begin or change your ADHD medications, you must also be able to have your blood pressure checked. 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 may have to take a break from their medicine during actual holidays or vacations, and return to it when they return to school or at home. Regular exercise can aid in improving attention and can help decrease risky behaviors linked to ADHD.
3. Other medicines
The majority of ADHD medications require prescriptions. Doctors must be able to monitor patients to determine the right dosage and drug type. Teachers and parents can be asked to fill out behavioral rating scales, and they can also monitor the person's reaction to the medication.
The first line of treatment for ADHD in children and adults is stimulant drugs. They help by increasing the levels of neurotransmitters like norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. This improves attention and reduces fatigue. They help 70 to 80% of adults and children suffering from ADHD, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. They can decrease fidgeting, interrupting, and forgetting things, reduce the impulsive behavior of jumping, running, and yelling, and improve social skills and school performance. They can also reduce blood pressure and heart rate. The majority of stimulant medications are available in short-acting formulas (that last about 4 to 6 hours) and long-acting versions (that can last up to 12 hours).
Nonstimulant drugs do not increase brain's chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine, however they can help alleviate symptoms in approximately 50% of those suffering from ADHD. They can help with impulsive behaviors, improve focus and mood, and make it easier to follow directions. They can also lessen aggression and improve relationships. These medications include the drugs atomoxetine (brand name Strattera) and viloxazine (brand name Qelbree). These medications can be taken in conjunction with stimulants.
Very few children and adults who are taking stimulant medication may become sedated or zombie-like or tearful or irritable. If this happens it is because the dose is excessive and should be adjusted.
ADHD can be treated with a range of medications. It could take several trials and error to discover the one that works best for your child or you. The medication must be taken regularly to ensure its effectiveness. If a person stops taking it, ADHD symptoms return. It takes time to discover a dosage and medication that will give the best results and has the least adverse effects.
4. Behavioral therapies
For many individuals with ADHD, medication does not reduce all their symptoms. Behavioral therapy may help them better manage their symptoms and improve their daily functioning. It can also improve their relationships with others as well as boost their self-esteem and increase their confidence.
Behavioral therapies are often used in conjunction ADHD medication. This multi-component treatment method will yield the best results for children with ADHD. Combining medication and behavior management is more effective than either method by itself.
A therapist will assist the child in order to help him develop new skills that will help him deal with his ADHD symptoms. Most often, this involves teaching them organizational strategies and the reduction of distractions. This could include teaching them strategies to cope in the event of emotional distress, such as mindfulness meditation and skills for regulating emotions. Behavioral therapy is typically delivered in groups. This lets therapists help and strengthen multiple children simultaneously, increasing the likelihood that a child will complete the program.
The therapist can also work with parents to teach them how to reinforce positive behavior. They will assist them in developing the system of rewarding good behavior and using discipline when necessary. They will also teach them about time management, goal setting and planning. Therapists may also suggest the use of a reward chart that allows the child to earn points when they complete tasks. If the child does not follow through with their responsibilities the therapist may have to introduce negative consequences, such as losing points.
Those who do not respond to medication might be able to benefit from cognitive behavior therapy (CBT). This kind of therapy focuses primarily on changing the way a person views their problems. It also helps them control their emotions and lessen the risk of impulsive behavior.
Behavioral therapies are usually less expensive than medication. However, they can take longer to yield results. If symptoms do not improve after a certain period, it's important to talk with your doctor about what could be making them worse. It could be that the child isn't taking their medication in the right way or that the dosage needs to be increased. It could be that a variety of stressful life events make it difficult for the child to focus. CHADD and its National Resource Center, ADDA and the ADDitude Directory all have find-a-therapist features that can provide a list of therapists who offer CBT.