ADHD Stimulant Medication
Many people suffering from ADHD find that medication helps to manage symptoms and improves their ability to function.
Stimulants increase certain brain chemicals that allow nerves to communicate with one another. They also decrease impulsiveness and aggression.
These medications come in various forms (eg, tablets, liquids) and are available to both children and adults. It can take some time to find the correct dose for each individual.
Types
Drugs that stimulate the brain, such as methylphenidate or amphetamine may ease ADHD symptoms for 70% to the majority of children and adults (Spencer and colleagues. 2005). These medications boost levels of dopamine, as well as norepinephrine. These medications help alleviate the main symptoms of the disorder, such as fidgeting and impulsivity, as well as difficulties paying attention. These medications help people complete tasks and improve their social abilities. The most effective drugs are when they are employed in conjunction with a complete treatment program that includes behavioral therapy and skill training.
Doctors aren't able to predict which medication will be the best one for a given person, so they usually start with a drug trial to determine the dosage that works well. Medications can take several weeks to reach peak effectiveness. They might have to be adjusted as time passes depending on how the patient reacts and adverse effects. The goal is to find a dose that is effective in managing ADHD symptoms, while remaining as low as possible.
The kinds of stimulant medications available are immediate-release methylphenidate and amphetamine, intermediate-release atomoxetine and long-acting dexamphetamine and guanfacine. Medication can be taken in liquid, capsule or chewable tablet forms. Children who are unable to swallow tablets or pills can sprinkle the beads on their food to take the three extended-release medicines.
These drugs can cause an increase in appetite and sleepiness. However, they do improve with regular usage. Insomnia is a possible consequence of these drugs, but doctors try to avoid giving them before the time of bed. The effects of amphetamine or methylphenidate is more common in teenagers and preteens. Parents must be aware for warning signs.
People with heart problems or other health issues should talk about the use of these medications with a medical professional. They can trigger a sudden increase in blood pressure or heart rate, and should not be taken by those with an addiction history or psychiatric issues.
Teenagers who use stimulant drugs to reduce weight or to get high are at risk of consuming them. Siu and Smith warn that this is a serious concern and puts teens at risk of a heart-related death. It's important to teach kids and teens about the risks of taking someone else's prescription or sharing their own prescription with their friends, and also to talk with a physician about the possibility of abuse.
Dosage
Stimulant medicines are typically taken as pills. Your doctor will determine the dosage according to your symptoms, medical conditions and other medications, as well as any side effects. Many people discover that finding the right dosage is a trial-and-error procedure which is why being open with your doctor is important.
MPH is a popular ADHD stimulant. These drugs are available in short- or long-acting forms, and are available as tablets, liquids, or chewable tablets. The long-acting formulations take longer to work but can last for as long as eight hours. The shorter-acting formulations are effective quickly but fade more quickly. Typically, doctors start patients on a small dose, and gradually increase the dose until they notice improvement in their symptoms.
Certain adults may have to take multiple stimulant medications to manage their symptoms. Depending on the individual, it might be necessary to take the medication along with other treatment options, such as behavioral therapy.
Stimulants are regarded as the first line treatment for ADHD as they have been proven to reduce symptoms in 70-80 percent of children and adults. These medications can reduce hyperactivity, interrupting fidgeting, impulsive behavior and fidgeting. They can also assist people focus and finish tasks. They can improve communication and overall performance.
The FDA has approved a variety of amphetamines, methylphenidates and methylphenidates to treat ADHD. They are generally tolerated and are effective. However, it is important to know that these medications are classified as Schedule II controlled substances by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration because they are prone to misuse and misused.
The use of stimulant drugs is common with medications to treat depression or mood disorders. These medications raise levels of norepinephrine, neurotransmitter that helps people control their behavior and concentrate. They can reduce the impulsivity of some people with ADHD however, they aren't as effective as stimulants when it comes to decreasing hyperactivity or inattention.
The crash effect can lead to depression, severe appetite and other unpleasant side effects. It can also happen after an inactive stimulant, particularly if the person hasn't been using it for a while or was using high doses.
Side effects
Stimulant drugs help by boosting levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which helps improve attention and control of impulses. The most commonly used stimulants for ADHD are methylphenidates or amphetamines. These medicines include Ritalin Concerta Focalin Adderall. These medications are available in a variety of forms and dosages, including liquids and pills. A large number of adults and children take these medications to manage their symptoms, in addition to other treatments such as therapy, skills training and lifestyle adjustments.
These medications may cause adverse effects, like a decrease in appetite or trouble sleeping. If you or your child suffer from these adverse effects, you may require taking medication later in the day, eat more during the day, or add snacks. You should also avoid drinking caffeinated drinks. These effects usually disappear after several weeks as the body adjusts to the medication and it is essential to follow the doctor's recommendations regarding dosage and frequency.
There are many different medications that can be used as a treatment for ADHD however, they can help reduce impulsiveness and hyperactivity in around 70% to 80% of people with the condition. They can help you to get better sleep, concentrate on work and schoolwork, and enhance relationships. Your doctor will examine your symptoms, discuss the risks and benefits of medication, and monitor your response to the medication.
Stimulants fall into the controlled substance category, which means that they pose a risk of abuse and addiction. When prescribed by a doctor, stimulants are not addictive. People who don't have ADHD often abuse these medications to feel more alert or to curb their appetites in order to lose weight, or to experience an "high." When used for adhd no medication , stimulant medications can be extremely efficient and safe.
Nonstimulants do not increase the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the body. They generally take longer to start working however, they can increase your ability to pay attention and control impulses. They are less likely than stimulants to be abused. However, they can cause adverse effects, such as less appetite and difficulty sleeping. Examples of nonstimulant medications include Strattera (atomoxetine), Qelbree (viloxazine) and Intuniv (guanfacine). Antidepressants can be taken on their own or combined with stimulants to treat ADHD symptoms.
Overdose
The stimulant drugs are prone to be misused or even abused even when they're prescribed for a legitimate medical purpose. Some people who do not have ADHD use these drugs to increase their alertness or to reduce their appetite in order to lose weight. Others may abuse them to simply feel "high." People who suffer from ADHD who receive proper treatment from a physician aren't likely to develop an addiction to these medicines, but these medications do have the potential of causing overdose and death.
Ingestion of prescription stimulants can cause serious harm. This is usually taken by mouth, but it can also happen when the medications are crushed, dissolving in water and then snorted out or injected. These types of harms are most prevalent among teenagers who have reported taking their own prescription of a stimulant or the medication of a different person not mentioned on the prescription, according to data from U.S. poison centers.
Many children are misled into taking the stimulant prescribed by their parents or older siblings to feel more alert or stay awake later to study for tests or get high. These are typically accidents, but can lead to severe poisoning or even heart issues. Children may steal tablets from friends or relatives who have prescriptions. The tablets can be particularly dangerous for children who have a preexisting heart condition or other health problems that make them susceptible to the drug's side effects.
The pills are also available without a prescription through drug dealers or from illegal sellers on the Internet, where they may contain fake pills that appear like genuine prescription stimulants, but contain harmful illicit substances. These drugs also can be dangerous when used together with alcohol or other controlled substances such as opioids.
It is recommended that patients take the time to read the Medication Guide that will be included with their prescription(s) to know more about the medicine including the warnings and adverse reactions. The guide will also provide how to properly keep and dispose of prescriptions that are not needed and return them to a pharmacy or other authorized disposal facilities or sites. In addition, urge them to contact FDA's MedWatch hotline if they have questions or concerns about their medicines or any adverse side reactions they encounter.