ADHD Medication - How Ritalin Helps Kids Manage ADHD
ADHD medications can help children manage their symptoms. Doctors prescribe two main types of drugs to treat ADHD including stimulants and non-stimulants.
Stimulants increase the amounts of two brain chemicals--norepinephrine and dopamine--that help kids focus. These are the first choice for teenagers and children with ADHD.
Long-acting stimulant formulations
Many people suffering from ADHD start treatment by taking stimulant medications. They work for about 70-80% of people with the disorder and are highly efficient in boosting attention and concentration. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that you begin with an FDA-approved medication. Only prescription medications are available, and should be taken exactly according to the prescription. Over-the-counter (OTC) supplements or vitamins marketed to treat ADHD are not backed by scientific research, and they can cause negative side effects when combined with prescription medications.
There are a variety of long-acting stimulant formulas, each with a customized delivery system and a different time-action profiles. These medications allow clinicians the ability to determine the specific times of the day at which patients are most impaired. 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 slower and are less likely to cause side effects than short-acting ADHD drugs. They typically last for 8 to 16 hours, depending on the dosage. The longer time frame also allows the medication to provide an even and consistent effect throughout the day which makes them a great option for adults.
Long-acting ADHD medication may cause side effects like changes in appetite, an upset stomach, or an increase in heart rate. Other potential side effects could include tics and minor growth delays however, these are generally temporary and usually go away within a few days or even weeks as the body adjusts to the medicine.
The most popular kind of long-acting ADHD medication is methylphenidate. It is the active ingredient in Ritalin and other similar medications, and it increases the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. These neurotransmitters are crucial chemical messengers that play an important role in motivation, action and cognition.
The most popular stimulant drugs for ADHD include methylphenidates, amphetamines and Atomoxetine. All of these medications fall under the umbrella of "methylphenidates," but some are made differently than other. Some are absorbed into the body via the skin, while others are taken orally or injected intravenously.
Short-acting stimulant formulations
There are many formulations of stimulant drugs that can be used to treat ADHD in adults. They include all forms of methylphenidate, such as Ritalin, Focalin and Metadate and amphetamines like Adderall, Dexedrine and Vyvanse. Doctors can also prescribe atomoxetine, which functions a bit differently from the stimulants and can last a bit longer. There are even some antidepressants with atypical properties that can be used to treat ADHD symptoms, like Wellbutrin (bupropion) and the two antihypertensives Catapres as well as Tenex (clonidine).
Stimulant drugs work by increasing the neurotransmitter levels within the brain. This can help improve concentration and reduce restlessness for children and adults suffering from ADHD. The medications also reduce the impulsivity and hyperactivity of children and adults. However stimulants can cause negative side effects, such as dry mouth and blurry vision. Some people might also experience an increase in irritability and anxiety. Some people experience trouble sleeping when taking these medications.
The "rebound effect" is a condition that occurs when the drug's effects fade is a major issue. The drugs can also cause an increase in blood pressure and heart rate in certain people. If taken as directed by a physician, however they are safe and effective for adults.
The best type of stimulant medication for a person with ADHD is one that can be taken in the morning prior to school or at work. These are called long-acting stimulants. This type of medication can reduce symptoms and prevent an increase in symptoms.
Other types of the medication can be taken throughout the day as required. Short-acting pills peak and fall within the body in a short time which means that a person who needs to take them regularly will need to take more than one pill each day. This could be a problem for a lot of adults suffering from ADHD.
Stimulants are among the most commonly used treatment for ADHD among adolescents, children and adults. They are the most effective medication for reducing ADHD symptoms. They can cause serious and even life-threatening consequences if they are used incorrectly or in excess doses. They also increase the risk of developing depression and other mental health disorders.
Nonstimulant medicines
Nonstimulant medicines are an alternative to stimulant drugs like Ritalin, if they aren't working or have side effects that are too severe. They are less addictive and abuse-prone than stimulants. They work by increasing levels of the brain chemical norepinephrine. These drugs are usually prescribed by specialists in mental health issues, or psychiatrists. They are often employed in combination with other treatments, like psychosocial treatment or lifestyle changes.
Nonstimulant medicines might take longer to get results than stimulants. They might also require a higher dose to reach the same level of efficacy. They are prescribed as tablets or capsules and can be taken with or without food. They are more likely to cause stomach upset or change blood pressure and heart rate. They also be more at risk of developing interactions with other drugs, so you must be vigilant.
Some ADHD medications can be applied as patches 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 tactilely-sensitive and do not like taking medication via mouth. The patch is only useful for children who are able to apply it consistently.
It can take time to find the right dosage, combination of medications and schedule. It is crucial to speak clearly and openly with a health professional regarding the way you or your child responds to the medication. Keep a record of your symptoms, or those of your child as well as any changes in medication.
There are always adverse effects of taking any medication. Some people experience stomach upsets or sleep disturbances, as well as an increased heart rate and weight loss. Children and adolescents who are taking stimulant medication might experience a decrease in their growth rate, however this is generally not significant. Some individuals may experience anxiety or tics. A small percentage of people have a severe response to the medication.
If you or your child experiences serious symptoms, see an emergency physician immediately. Only take the medication as directed by your physician. Ask your pharmacist if there's a program for returning prescription medications. You may also mix the medication with cat litter or ground coffee and take it out.
Antidepressants
Many people who receive stimulant medications for ADHD also take nonstimulant or an antidepressant medication. They can have a calming effect and help control some of the negative effects of stimulants, including the loss of appetite or difficulty sleeping. In general, nonstimulant medications are less likely to trigger depression than stimulants. They can also be beneficial in treating anxiety and bipolar disorder, which are sometimes associated with ADHD.
Stimulants that are used to treat ADHD have a great potential for abuse and misuse. Kids and teens without ADHD might use stimulants to boost their alertness or curb their appetites to shed weight. Others might take them to feel "high." Stimulants are Schedule I drugs with a high risk of addiction. When they are prescribed properly and taken by adults they do not increase the risk of addiction.
Methylphenidate is a stimulant. It is the most frequently prescribed medication for ADHD. non prescription adhd medication stimulates activity in the brain areas that control behavior and attention. It's available in immediate-release tablets (small doses taken twice to three times a day) and modified-release tablets, that release the drug throughout the day. It's also available as a chewable or liquid form.
When stimulant medications are taken for ADHD Some people experience a short period where they feel fatigued, depressed, and more active. This is referred to as the rebound effect. Altering the time you take your medicine or adjusting your dosage can alleviate these symptoms.
Intuniv, a long-acting medication which contains guanfacine to treat adults suffering from ADHD is another alternative. This blood pressure medication is a kind of alpha-2 adrenergic agonist and it has been found to be highly effective in decreasing impulsive and hyperactive behaviors in adults. It's not as effective in reducing symptoms of inattention, however.
It can take a while to find the right ADHD medication and dosage for your child or yourself. Your doctor is likely to start with a low dose and gradually increase them until they find the combination that controls your symptoms while causing least negative side effects. You'll need to see your GP regularly for regular checkups and to see whether the dosage should be adjusted.