9 . What Your Parents Taught You About ADHD Treatment Medication

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9 . What Your Parents Taught You About ADHD Treatment Medication

ADHD Treatment Medication

Adults with ADHD are typically treated with psychosocial therapy and medications. The treatments used to treat ADHD can include stimulants as well as nonstimulants.

Stimulants, including lisdexamfetamine and methylphenidate, work on chemical messengers within the brain to boost mood and concentration, as well as control of impulses. Atomoxetine or guanfacine, which are nonstimulant ADHD medications, can be prescribed to adults, teens or children who are not responsive to stimulants.

Stimulants

The most popular medications used to treat ADHD are stimulants. They boost the levels of neurotransmitters (dopamine and norepinephrine) in the brain, which helps people manage their behavior and pay attention. It has been proven that they can reduce ADHD symptoms for 70 - 80% adults and children. This includes reducing fidgeting, hyperactivity, and interruptions, helping to finish tasks, and improving relationships. They also have been proven to boost academic performance and decrease absenteeism.

They are typically taken orally. They are available in two kinds of immediate-release (short-acting) and extended-release. The longer-acting ones build up gradually in the bloodstream, and they wear off slower than doses with short-acting. This can help avoid what's called the "crash effect" which can occur when the medication is worn off and causes symptoms to come back, like low energy, mood swings and feelings of hunger.

Methylphenidate is the most common stimulant that is used by teens and children.  buy adhd medication online  is available as chewable pills, oral patches, and tablets that can be taken in a swallow. Adderall and Dexedrine are amphetamines that are more potent and last for longer than methylphenidate. There is also atomoxetine, that was recently licensed to be used for children and adults older than 5 years old when other medications fail to perform or cause unwanted side effects.

Amphetamines can affect the heart and are not recommended for people suffering from heart problems. They can also be misused, leading to addiction.

There are medications that aren't stimulant for ADHD, but these take longer to begin working and don't have the same effects as stimulants. Nonstimulants and behavioral therapy, are commonly employed in multimodal treatment.

Some studies have shown that the combination of medication and therapy can improve the way people suffering from ADHD function at school, at home or at work. Medication alone is not enough to manage the condition, and a lot of people with ADHD continue to struggle even though they are taking medication.

In these cases, it is important to speak with your doctor about what other options are available. Psychoeducation is one of the therapies that can help children, teens and adults be aware of their diagnosis of ADHD, and learn strategies to cope. It is usually combined with behavioural therapy and skill training to enhance the performance of those suffering from ADHD at work and school.


Some ADHD medications may cause adverse effects however they are typically mild and short-lived. Most side effects disappear as the body becomes accustomed to the medication. If they do persist, the doctor may be able to adjust the dosage or the type. Tell your doctor if you or your child notice any changes in appetite or mood or if they are having trouble sleeping or having stomach upsets. This information can help your doctor find the most effective medication for you or your child. This is important, especially if you have other health conditions which may affect the medication and increase your risk of having side effects.