ADHD Medication - How Ritalin Helps Kids Manage ADHD
ADHD medication can make a big difference in helping children manage their symptoms. Doctors prescribe two types of drugs to treat ADHD: stimulants and nonstimulants.
Stimulants increase the amounts of two brain chemicals--norepinephrine and dopamine--that help kids focus. These medications are a first-choice option for children and teenagers with ADHD.
Long-acting stimulant formulations
Stimulant drugs are the first treatment option for many people who suffer from ADHD. They help around 70-80 percent of people suffering from the disorder and are highly efficient in boosting attention and concentration. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) suggests starting with a FDA-approved medication. These medications are only available on prescription, and must be taken according to the directions. Over-the-counter (OTC) supplements or vitamins marketed for treatment of ADHD do not have a scientific basis and can result in harmful side effects when used with prescription medications.
There are several different long-acting stimulant formulas that provide specific delivery systems and various time-action profiles. These medications let clinicians concentrate on specific times of the day that can be the most detrimental for the patient. For instance, patients who have trouble completing morning tasks can benefit from long-acting stimulants such as Dexedrine Spansules, Dextroamphetamine/AMPH patch (Xelstrym), or the newer extended-release oral medication Mydayis (lisdexamfetamine).
Long-acting ADHD medications enter the bloodstream slower and are less likely to cause adverse effects than short-acting ADHD drugs. They last between 8 and 16 hours based on the dosage. The longer duration allows the medication to have a an overall effect that is consistent throughout the day and makes them a good choice for adults.
Some of the possible side effects of long-acting ADHD medication include changes in appetite, an upset stomach and an increase in heart rate. Other possible side effects include tics and minor growth retardation however, these are generally temporary and usually go away within a few days or even weeks as the body adjusts to the drug.
The most commonly used kind of long-acting ADHD medication is methylphenidate. It is the active ingredient in Ritalin and similar medications, and it is able to increase the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine within the brain. These neurotransmitters play an important role in motivation, cognition, and also in executing actions.
The most common stimulant medications used to treat ADHD are methylphenidates (amphetamines), atomoxetine, amphetamines and atomoxetine. All of these medications are classified as "methylphenidates," although some are formulated differently. Some are absorbed into the body via the skin, while others are consumed by mouth or injected intravenously.
Short-acting stimulant formulations
There are a variety of stimulant drugs that can be used to treat ADHD in adults. This includes all forms of methylphenidate including Ritalin Focalin Metadate and Metadate as well as amphetamines such as Adderall, Dexedrine, and Vyvanse. A doctor may prescribe atomoxetine which is an stimulant that functions differently and lasts longer. There are even some antidepressants that are atypical and work well to treat ADHD symptoms, such as Wellbutrin (bupropion) and the two antihypertensives Catapres as well as Tenex (clonidine).
Stimulant medications work by increasing neurotransmitter levels in the brain. This improves concentration and reduce restlessness in children and adults with ADHD. The medications also reduce the impulsivity and hyperactivity of children and adults. However, stimulants can lead to side effects such as dry mouth and blurred vision. They can also cause increased irritability, anxiety and appetite in some people. Some people have trouble sleeping when taking them.
The "rebound effect" is a condition that occurs when the effects of the drug are fading, is a major concern. Certain people may also suffer from high blood pressure or heart rate while taking these medications. When taken as prescribed by a doctor, however they are safe and effective in adults.
The best stimulant medication to take for people suffering from ADHD is a morning dose prior to going to work or school. These are called long-acting stimulants. This type of medication can reduce symptoms and prevent the possibility of a rebound.
Other forms of the medication can be taken throughout the day, if required. Short-acting medications peak and decrease within the body in a short time which means that a person who needs to take them regularly will have to take more than one pill per day. This could be a problem for many adults with ADHD.
Stimulants are the most widely used treatment for ADHD in children, adolescents as well as adults. They are the most effective medications to reduce ADHD symptoms. They can cause serious and even life-threatening consequences if they are used incorrectly or in excess doses. They may also increase the chances of developing depression and mental health disorders.
Nonstimulant medications
Nonstimulant medications are an alternative to stimulant medications such as Ritalin when they fail to work or cause side effects that are too severe. These drugs are less addictive and abuse-prone than stimulants. non stimulant adhd medication boost the chemical in the brain called norepinephrine. Psychiatrists or doctors who specialize in mental conditions are the most likely to prescribe these medicines. They can be prescribed as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that incorporates psychosocial treatment and lifestyle modifications.
Nonstimulant medications can take a longer time to start working than stimulants. They may also require a greater dose to achieve the same level of efficacy. They are usually prescribed in capsule or tablet form and can be taken with food or without. They are more likely than other drugs to cause stomach upset or alter blood pressure and heart rate. They also have greater risk of developing interactions with other drugs.
Certain ADHD medications are available in patch form that can be put on the skin. These patches are ideal for people who are forgetful or have trouble swallowing tablets. These patches are also beneficial for children who are sensitive to the touch and dislike taking medicine through the mouth. However, the patch is limited use in children due to the necessity for continuous application.
Finding the ideal combination of dosage schedule, frequency, and medication may take some time. It is crucial to speak clearly and openly with a health care provider about the way your child or you react to the medication. It's helpful to keep a diary of your or your child's symptoms and any changes that occur due to the medication.
There are always some side consequences when you take any medication. Some sufferers experience stomach upset and sleeplessness, increased heart rate, and weight loss. Children and adolescents who take stimulant medication may notice a decrease in their growth rate, although this is generally not significant. Some people may develop anxiety or tics, and a small percentage of people could experience severe reactions to the medication.
Consult a doctor as soon when you or your child develop severe symptoms. Medicines should only be taken according to the instructions of your physician. Ask your pharmacist if there is an option to return prescription medications. You can also mix the medication with ground coffee or cat litter and take it out.
Antidepressants
Many people who are prescribed stimulant medication for ADHD also use an antidepressant or a nonstimulant medication. These medicines can help calm the mind and control some of the side effects of stimulants like a decrease in appetite or trouble sleeping. In general, nonstimulant medications are less likely to cause depression than stimulants. They also can help treat bipolar disorders and anxiety, which are sometimes linked to ADHD.
Stimulants used to treat ADHD are prone for misuse and abuse. Kids and teens who don't have ADHD might use them to feel alert or to reduce their appetites to shed weight. Others might use them to get "high." They are included in Schedule I drugs, which have a high risk of addiction. If they are prescribed correctly and taken by adults, they don't increase the risk of addiction.
Methylphenidate is a stimulant. It is the most commonly prescribed medication for ADHD. It stimulates the activity in the brain regions that regulate behavior and attention. It is available as tablets that release immediately (small doses taken two to three times a day), and modified-release tablet, which releases the drug throughout the day. Also available in liquid and chewable form.
When stimulant drugs are used for ADHD, some people experience a short period of feeling tired or depressed and become more active. This is known as the rebound effect. These symptoms can be cured by altering the timing at which you take your medication or altering the dosage.
Another option for adults suffering from ADHD is guanfacine. It is available as the long-acting medicine Intuniv. This blood pressure medication is a type of alpha-2 adrenergic agonist and has been found to be significantly effective in reducing hyperactivity and impulsive behaviors in adults. It does not appear to be as effective in reducing the symptoms of inattention.
It may take some time to find the appropriate ADHD dosage and medication for your child or yourself. Your doctor will likely start with low doses and increase them gradually to discover the dosage that is most effective in controlling your symptoms and causes the fewest negative side effects. You'll need to visit your GP regularly for regular checkups, and to determine if the dosage needs to be adjusted.