Medication For ADHD - What Are the Side Effects?

Many people suffering from ADHD have a decrease in symptoms when they take medication for inattentive adhd and anxiety. However, each person reacts differently to different medications, and side effects can be troublesome.

Methylphenidate belongs to a class of drugs known as stimulants. It is a stimulant that increases levels of a chemical in the brain that helps regulate the behavior and focus.

Stimulant medication given for adhd

Stimulant medications improve attention and concentration in 70% to 80% of adults and children who take them. They affect neurotransmitters such as norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. Typically, they cause an initial increase in blood pressure and heart rate that lasts for a few hours. Because of this, experts advise that people start low and build up to the optimal dose over the course of weeks.

Stimant medication is taken by mouth, typically at least once or twice per day. Most are available in both short- and long-acting formulas. Short-acting stimulants are peaking in a few hours, and should be taken two times a day. Long-acting stimulating drugs last between 8 and 12 hours, and are only taken once a week.

These medications can trigger unwanted adverse side effects like nausea, insomnia and nausea. They can also make people irritable or moody however these effects typically diminish over time and are usually controlled by adjusting the dosage. In some cases stimulants can change your personality. You could become more introverted, listless, or more obsessive and rigid. They may also increase the risk of other mental disorders, like depression and mania.

The majority of stimulants are controlled substances and require a prescription. Adolescents and adults misuse these substances to boost performance. They may become addicted when they are not taken in the correct manner or as directed. Due to these risks, doctors carefully consider the need for stimulant medications and keep track of the dosage and adverse effects.

Non-stimulant medicine

There are many non-stimulant adhd medication list uk medications available, and which one is most appropriate for you is based on your personal needs. These are prescription medications however they do not act on the same brain chemicals as stimulants. Non-stimulants are less likely have negative side effects, however, they take longer to effect and only last for a period of 24 hours. Most of them work by increasing the levels of norepinephrine in the brain. They also include antidepressants like bupropion (Wellbutrin) and nortriptyline (Aventyl and Pamelor).

Psychotherapy

Talk therapy can teach the patient how to deal with the symptoms and learn new coping techniques such as controlling impulsivity or stress. BetterHelp, an online therapy platform connects clients with licensed therapists who are trained to treat ADHD and other mental health conditions. Get a free assessment and get an appointment with a therapist within as little as 48 hours. Stimulant and non-stimulant medication can help people suffering from ADHD improve their ability to concentrate and decrease impulsivity, however they don't address the underlying causes of the disorder. In addition to talking therapy, cognitive behavior therapy and mindfulness-based therapies can teach a person methods to manage impulsive behavior and improve their ability to manage their emotions. These techniques can be taught by an ADHD coach or practiced with a trained therapist. They can also be taught to caregivers and parents to assist the child or adult with ADHD in these areas. In certain situations it is suggested to combine medications and talk therapy might be the best approach.