ADHD Stimulant Medication
For many people with ADHD medications can help manage symptoms and improve their ability to function.1
Stimulants increase certain brain chemicals which help nerves communicate. They can also reduce impulsiveness and aggression.
These drugs are available in various forms for children as well as adults (e.g. tablets and liquids). It could take a while to find the right dose for each person.
Types
Stimulant drugs like methylphenidate or amphetamine can help ease ADHD symptoms for 70 - 80% adults and children (Spencer and colleagues. 2005). These drugs are thought to increase the levels of two brain chemicals, dopamine and norepinephrine. These medications help alleviate the main symptoms of the disorder, including fidgeting and impulsivity, as well as problems with paying attention. The drugs also help people complete tasks and develop better social skills. In general, the drugs are best employed as part of an overall treatment plan that incorporates behavior therapy and skills training.
Doctors aren't able predict which medication is best for each patient, so the majority of them begin with a medication trial to determine the dosage that works well. Medications can take several weeks to reach peak effectiveness. They might need to be adjusted in time, based on the patient's response as well as side effects. The objective is to find a dosage that helps manage ADHD symptoms, but is as low as it is possible to be.
The different types of stimulant medicines available include immediate-release methylphenidate, amphetamine, intermediate-release atomoxetine as well as long-acting guanfacine, dexamphetamine. The medication can be consumed in liquid, capsule or chewable tablet form. The three extended-release medications are available as beads that can be sprinkled over foods for children who have trouble swallowing tablets or pills.
These medicines can cause a drop in appetite and sleepiness, but they tend to improve with continued use. Insomnia can be a result of these medications however, doctors try to avoid giving them at the time of bed. Insomnia caused by methylphenidate and amphetamine tends to be more severe in teens and preteens parents must be aware for warning symptoms.
If you have heart problems or any other health issues it is crucial to discuss these medications with your doctor. They may cause an abrupt increase in blood pressure or heart rate, and they shouldn't be taken by those who have an addiction history or psychiatric disorders.
Teenagers who take stimulant medications to reduce weight or to get high are at risk of consuming them. Siu and Smith warn that this is a serious concern, as it puts teens at risk of heart-related fatality. It is essential to educate children and teens about the dangers of taking someone else’s prescription or sharing it with a group of friends. It's also crucial to consult with a physician to discuss the possibility of abuse.
Dosage
Stimulant medication is usually used in the form of pills. The dosage is determined by your doctor based on the severity of your symptoms, medical conditions or other medications you are taking as well as the drug's side effects. Finding the right medicine can be a trial-and-error process for a lot of people. Communication with your doctor can aid you in locating the proper medication.
A common type of ADHD stimulant is the methylphenidates (MPH). These drugs are available in short- or long-acting forms and are available in tablets, liquids, or chewable tablets. Long-acting formulations can last up to eight hours. The shorter-acting formulations are effective quickly however they wear off faster. Typically, doctors place patients on a low dosage and gradually increase the dosage until they see improvement in their symptoms.
Some adults require more than one stimulant drug to treat their symptoms. Based on the person, the medication might require to be taken in conjunction with other treatments, such as behavior therapy.
Stimulants are often considered the first-line treatment for ADHD as they have been proven to reduce symptoms in 70-80% of adults and children. These medications can reduce the frequency of fidgeting, hyperactivity, interruptions and an impulsive behaviour. They can also assist people concentrate and complete tasks. They can also help improve relationships and overall functioning.
The FDA has approved several amphetamines and methylphenidates as a treatment of ADHD. They are generally tolerated and are effective. However, it is important to note that these medications are classified as Schedule II controlled substances by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration since they are susceptible to misuse and misused.
Treatments for depression or mood disorders can be utilized in conjunction with stimulant medication. These medications increase the levels of norepinephrine which is an neurotransmitter that assists people to manage their behavior and focus. They can help reduce the impulsivity of certain people suffering from ADHD however, they are not as effective as stimulants when it comes to reducing hyperactivity or inattention.
The crash effect can cause depression, severe appetite and other unpleasant side-effects. It may also occur after a stimulant that is short-acting, particularly when the person hasn't been using it for a while or was on an excessive dose.
does adhd medication work help by boosting levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which help increase attention and control over impulses. The majority of stimulants used to treat ADHD are amphetamines or methylphenidates. The most common kinds of these medications are Ritalin, Concerta, Focalin and Adderall. They are available in a variety of forms and doses, from liquid to pills. Many adults and children use these medicines to treat their symptoms, along with other treatments like therapy, skills training, and lifestyle changes.
These drugs may cause side effects, like a decrease in appetite or trouble sleeping. If you experience these side effects and your child is affected, you might need to take the medication at a later date, eat more food throughout the day or add snacks, and try to avoid beverages that contain caffeine. These symptoms will typically subside within a few days as your body adjusts. It is important to follow the doctor's recommendations about dosage and frequency.
The medications aren't the only method to treat ADHD but they can reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity in 70-80% of people with the condition. They can aid in getting better sleep, focus on work and schoolwork, and enhance relationships. Your doctor will evaluate your symptoms, talk about the potential risks and benefits of the medication, and track your reaction to the drug.
Stimulants are categorized as controlled substances, meaning they have a high chance of misuse and addiction. When taken as prescribed by a doctor, stimulants are not addictive. People who don't have ADHD frequently use these drugs to increase their alertness or to curb their appetites in order to shed weight, or to experience an "high." If taken for medical reasons, stimulant drugs are very safe and effective.
Nonstimulants are not able to increase dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the body. They are more difficult to use however they can increase your control ability and concentration. They are less likely to be misused, but they could cause adverse effects like decreased appetite and difficulties sleeping. Examples of nonstimulant medication include Strattera (atomoxetine), Qelbree (viloxazine) and Intuniv (guanfacine). Antidepressants are often used as a single medication or in conjunction with a stimulant to treat ADHD symptoms.
Overdose
Stimulant medications have a potential to be misused or even abused even when they're prescribed to serve a legitimate medical need. Certain people who don't suffer from ADHD abuse these medications to feel more alert or to curb their appetite to lose weight. Some may use them simply to feel "high." These drugs aren't addictive for people with ADHD who receive the appropriate treatment from a physician. However they can be deadly when taken in large quantities.
Ingestion of prescription stimulants can cause serious harm. It is typically taken by mouth, but it can also happen when the medications are crushed, mixed with water and then snorted out or injectable. These harms are most common in teenagers who report using their own prescription of stimulants or the prescription of a different person not mentioned in the prescription information, according to data from U.S. poison centers.
Many young kids mistakenly take their parents' or older siblings' prescriptions of a stimulant to feel more alert and stay up longer to study for school tests or to get high. These cases are usually accidents however, they can result in extreme poisoning, or even heart problems. Children can also get the tablets through theft from friends or relatives who have prescribed. The pills can be especially dangerous for children who have an existing heart condition or other health issues that can make them sensitive to the drugs' side effects.
These drugs can be purchased without a prescription from drug dealers or illegal sellers on the internet. They could contain fake pills that resemble prescription stimulants, but they contain dangerous illegal substances. These drugs can also pose a risk when taken together with alcohol or other controlled substances like opioids.
Encourage patients to take the time to read the Medication Guide that will be included with their prescription(s) to learn about the medication including the warnings and adverse reactions. The guide will also explain how to properly store and dispose unused prescriptions by returning them to an authorized pharmacy or other disposal facilities or sites. Encourage them to contact the FDA's MedWatch Hotline if they're concerned about their medication or experiencing any side negative effects.