ADHD Medication - How Ritalin Helps Kids Manage ADHD
ADHD medication can make a huge difference in helping kids manage their symptoms. Doctors prescribe two kinds of drugs to treat ADHD: stimulants and non-stimulants.
Stimulants increase the amounts of two brain chemicals--norepinephrine and dopamine--that help kids focus. These medications are first-choice for adolescents and children suffering from ADHD.
Long-acting stimulant formulations
Many people with ADHD begin treatment with stimulant medication. They help around 70-80 percent of those suffering from the disorder and are highly efficient in boosting concentration and attention. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) suggests starting with an FDA-approved medication. Only prescription drugs are available, and should be taken as prescribed. Vitamins and supplements sold over the counter to treat ADHD are not backed by science and may cause harmful side effects if taken in conjunction in conjunction with prescription medications.
There are several different long-acting stimulant formulas that provide custom delivery systems and different time-action profiles. These medications allow clinicians to concentrate on specific times of the day that are the most challenging for patients. 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 bloodstream more slowly and are less likely to cause adverse effects than short-acting ADHD drugs. They last between 8 and 16 hours, depending on the dosage. The longer time frame allows for more of a consistent and long-lasting effect, which is ideal for adults.
A few possible side effects associated with 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 delays in growth. These are temporary and typically disappear once the body adjusts.
Methylphenidate is the most common long-acting ADHD medication. It is the active ingredient in Ritalin and other similar medications, and it is able to increase the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. These neurotransmitters are crucial chemical messengers that play a critical role in the process of motivation, action and cognition.
The most popular stimulant medications used to treat ADHD are methylphenidates (amphetamines) and atomoxetine amphetamines and atomoxetine. All of these medications are included under the umbrella term "methylphenidates," but some are formulated differently than others. Some medications are absorbed through the skin while others are administered in the form of an oral or intravenously.
Short-acting stimulant formulations
There are a myriad of stimulant medications available to treat ADHD. This includes all forms of methylphenidate including Ritalin Focalin Metadate and Metadate and amphetamines such as Adderall, Dexedrine, and Vyvanse. Doctors can prescribe atomoxetine which is a stimulant that works differently and lasts longer. There are even some antidepressants that are atypical and work well to control ADHD symptoms, like Wellbutrin (bupropion) and the two antihypertensives Catapres as well as Tenex (clonidine).
Stimulant medications work by increasing the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain. This can improve concentration and decrease restlessness in children and adults suffering from ADHD. Medications also help reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. However stimulants can cause negative side effects, such as dry mouth and blurred vision. They can also cause increased anxiety, irritability and appetite in some people. Some people experience difficulty sleeping when taking these drugs.
One of the biggest concerns with these drugs is that they may cause the "rebound effect" after the effects diminish. They can also trigger high blood pressure and a higher heart rate in some people. When prescribed by a doctor, these drugs are safe and effective in adults.
The best stimulant medication for those suffering from ADHD is a morning dose prior to going to school or working. They are referred to as long-acting stimulants. This form of the medication can help reduce symptoms and prevent a rebound.
If required, other types of the medication can be taken throughout the day. Short-acting pills peak and fall within the body in a short time which means that anyone who has to take them frequently will need to take more than one pill every day. This could be a problem for many adults with ADHD.
Stimulants are the most popular and widely-used treatment for ADHD in children, adolescents and adults. They are regarded as the most effective medication for the reduction of ADHD symptoms. However, they can cause serious and life-threatening adverse effects if used in the wrong way or with excessive dosages. They can also increase the risk of developing depression and other mental health disorders.
Nonstimulant medications
If stimulant medications like Ritalin aren't effective or cause unacceptable adverse effects, nonstimulant drugs can be used to treat ADHD symptoms. These drugs are less addictive and abuse-prone than stimulants. They function by increasing the levels of the brain chemical norepinephrine. Doctors who specialize in mental health are the most likely to prescribe these medications. They may be used as part of a complete treatment plan that includes psychosocial treatments and lifestyle adjustments.
Nonstimulant medicines may require longer to begin working than stimulants. They might also require a higher dose to achieve the same level of effectiveness. They are typically prescribed in a capsule or tablet and can be taken with or without food. They are more likely to cause stomach upset, or alter blood pressure and heart rate. They also have a higher risk of developing drug interaction with other drugs.
Some ADHD medications are available in patch form that can be put on the skin. These are useful for people who don't remember to take their medication, or have trouble swallowing tablets. They can also be useful for children who are tactilely sensitive and don't want taking medicine through mouth. The patch is only useful for children who are able to apply it consistently.
Finding the best combination of dosage, schedule, and medication may take some time. It is crucial to speak clearly and openly with your health care professional about how 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.
When you take any medication, there are always some adverse effects. They include stomach upset, difficulty sleeping and heart rate increases and weight loss in certain people. Children and adolescents who take stimulant medication may experience a reduction in their growth rate, but this is generally not significant. Certain people may experience anxiety or tics. A small proportion of them may experience a severe reaction to the medication.
If you or your child experiences serious symptoms, see a doctor immediately. Only take the medication as directed by your doctor. If you have any leftover medication, ask your pharmacist about taking back prescription drugs or mix it in with coffee grounds or cat litter and eliminate it.
that guy who are prescribed stimulant drugs for ADHD are also prescribed nonstimulant or antidepressant medications. They can have a calming effect and may help to control some of the negative effects of stimulants, including a decrease in appetite or difficulty sleeping. In general, medications that are not stimulant are less likely to cause depression than stimulants. They can also be helpful in treating anxiety and bipolar disorder, which can be related to ADHD.
Stimulants that are used to treat ADHD have a high potential for abuse and misuse. Teens and kids who don't have ADHD might take them to feel alert or to reduce their appetite to lose weight. Others may use them to get "high." Stimulants are Schedule I drugs with a high risk of addiction. However, when they're correctly prescribed and taken by adults, they won't increase the risk of addiction.
Methylphenidate is a stimulant. It is the most commonly prescribed medication for ADHD. It boosts brain activity areas that regulate behavior and attention. It's available in tablets that release immediately (small doses taken 2 to 3 times a day) and modified-release tablets, that release the drug throughout the day. It's also available in chewable or liquid form.
Certain people who take stimulant medications for ADHD experience a short period of fatigue, a negative mood, and an increase in activity when the medication wears off. This is referred to as the rebound effect. Changing the time of day you take your medicine or altering your dosage could help to reduce the symptoms.
Intuniv, a medication that acts for a long time that contains guanfacine, a substance for adults suffering from ADHD, is another option. This blood pressure medication is a type of alpha-2 adrenergic agonist and has been proven to be extremely effective in the reduction of impulsive and hyperactive behavior in adults. It does not appear to be as effective in reducing symptoms of inattention.
Finding the appropriate ADHD medication for your child or yourself may take some time. Your doctor may begin with small doses and gradually increase them until you find a combination that will control your symptoms while causing the least number of adverse effects. You should visit your GP regularly to undergo regular check-ups and determine if the dosage should be adjusted.