ADHD Stimulant Medicines
Stimulant medications help people suffering from ADHD focus and control their behavior. They work by helping the brain pass messages from one neuron to another.
These medicines include amphetamines (Dexedrine Adderall XR, Adderall, Mydayis) and methylphenidates (Concerta, Ritalin). There are also long-acting stimulant medications.
Your doctor will be monitoring the symptoms of your child or you to determine the appropriate medication and dose. adhd medication pregnancy 'll also watch for adverse reactions.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the first types of medication doctors recommend for those suffering from ADHD. They increase norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter found in the brain. These drugs can help increase focus, working memory, and self-control. They also reduce the symptoms of anxiety and depression.
The most common stimulant medicines used to treat ADHD are methylphenidate (Ritalin), dextroamphetamine (Adderall) amphetamine salts (Dexedrine). They are available in tablet, liquid, patch or oral form. These drugs can trigger side effects like a weight loss, difficulty sleeping, or an increase in blood pressure and heart rate. These side effects usually happen the first few days or weeks of being on a new medication. They will go away on their own once your body gets used to the medication.
There are a few concerns regarding the long-term use of stimulant drugs in children and teens. They aren't certain how the drugs will affect the brain's development. They are also worried about the risk of abuse and addiction. People with a history of bipolar disorder, depression, or problems with substance abuse are more likely to use ADHD medications. People can also become dependent on the drug in the event that they take it longer than prescribed or at higher doses.
Most kids and teens are well-responsive to stimulant medication but it can take time to find the right medicine, dosage, and schedule for each child. Your doctor will begin with a small amount and then monitor your child's response to the medication. Then, they will alter the dose or how often your child is taking the medication depending on how much it helps and any adverse effects you or your child have.
Nonstimulant medications can be used if your child has difficulty with stimulants, or if they have medical issues such as heart disease. Strattera, Intuniv and Quelbree are medicines that increase the amount of norepinephrine present in the body. They can be beneficial for people with anxiety and ADHD.
Some children and adults do not get better after taking medication. In these instances your doctor might recommend therapy or behavioral therapies. Behavior therapy can teach kids and parents the skills to manage their symptoms. It can also help create a structure for school and create a routine that reduces distractions.
Tell your doctor if you child is taking any other medication. This includes vitamins, over-the-counter drugs and supplements. You should also speak to your doctor if you are concerned about how your child is performing at school. Ask your teacher for feedback and keep in contact with them. Try relaxation methods such as meditation or yoga. They can help your kids relax and learn how to manage their ADHD symptoms.