Medication For ADHD - What Are the Side Effects?
Many people with ADHD have their symptoms improved by taking medication. Every person's reaction is different, and side effects can be a problem.
Methylphenidate belongs to a class of medications called stimulants. It is a stimulant that increases levels of a brain chemical that helps control behavior and attention.
Stimulant medication
Stimulant medication improves attention and concentration for 70% to 80% children and adults who use it. They affect neurotransmitters like norepinephrine or dopamine in the brain. They usually cause an initial increase in blood pressure and heart rate, which lasts for several hours. Because of this, many experts recommend that people begin with a low dose and gradually increase to the recommended dosage over a period of weeks.
Stimant medications are taken by mouth, typically at least once or twice per day. There are short-acting as well as long-acting versions for most stimulants. Short-acting stimulants peak after a short time and are required to be taken three times a day; long-acting stimulants last between 8 and 12 hours and are taken only once every day.
These drugs can trigger unwanted adverse effects, like insomnia, nausea and a decrease in appetite. medication for adults with add may also make people moody or angry, but these effects generally fade with time and are often managed by altering the dosage. In some instances, stimulants can cause changes in personality, like being withdrawn, unfocused or more rigid and obsessive. They may also raise the risk of other mental health problems, including mania and depression.
The majority of stimulants are controlled substances and require prescription. They are frequently used by adults and teens for the purpose of performance enhancement, and they could result in addiction if used in a way that is not prescribed. Because of the risks, doctors are very attentive to determine the need for stimulant medications and monitor the dosage and adverse effects closely.
Non-stimulant medicines
There are a variety of non-stimulant ADHD medication options, and the one that's most appropriate for you is based on your individual needs. These medications don't affect the same brain chemicals that stimulants do. Non-stimulants cause less side effects but can take longer to kick in and last only 24 hours. They are mostly effective by increasing the level of norepinephrine in the brain. They also contain antidepressants such as bupropion (Wellbutrin) and nortriptyline (Aventyl and Pamelor).
Psychotherapy
Therapy can help a person learn how to cope with symptoms and develop new coping strategies like controlling impulsivity and stress. BetterHelp, a service that offers online therapy connects people with licensed therapists trained in treating ADHD and other mental illnesses. You can find an therapist within a matter of 48 hours after completing a no-cost online assessment. Non-stimulant and stimulant medications can help people suffering from ADHD improve their ability to focus and reduce impulsivity, however they don't address the root causes of the disorder. Cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness can be used in conjunction with therapy to help people learn how to manage their unpredictable behavior. These techniques can be taught by an ADHD coach or practiced with a certified therapist. Parents and caregivers can be taught these techniques to assist their child or adult suffering from ADHD. In certain instances the combination of medication and talk therapy is the best approach.