Medication For ADHD - What Are the Side Effects?

Many people with ADHD experience a reduction in symptoms when they take medication. But every person reacts differently to different drugs and the adverse reactions can be problematic.

Methylphenidate belongs to a class of medications called stimulants. It works by increasing levels of a brain chemical that regulates behavior and attention.

Stimulant drugs

Stimulant medication can improve concentration and attention for 70% to 80% of children and adults who use it. They alter neurotransmitters like norepinephrine or dopamine in the brain. They typically cause an initial increase in blood pressure and heart rate that lasts for several hours. Because of this, experts advise that people start low and build up to the recommended dosage over a period of weeks.

Stimant medication is administered by mouth, usually every day, either once or twice. There are both short-acting and long-acting versions of many stimulants. Short-acting stimulants begin to show their effects after a few hours and should be taken 3 times a day; long-acting stimulants last 8-12 hours and are taken only once a day.

These medications can trigger unwanted adverse side effects like anxiety, insomnia and nausea. Some people may become irritable or moody. However the effects typically diminish over time and can be controlled by adjusting the dosage. In some cases, stimulants can cause changes in personality, for example being withdrawn, unfocused or more rigid and obsessive. They may also raise the risk of developing other psychiatric problems, including depression and mania.

Most stimulants are controlled substances, and require a prescription to be obtained. They are frequently used by adolescents and adults for the purpose of performance enhancement, and they can result in addiction if used in a way that is not prescribed. Because of the risks, doctors are very cautious in assessing the need for stimulant medications and monitor the dosage and effects.

Non-stimulant medicine

There are a variety of non-stimulant ADHD medications that are available, and the one that is most effective is dependent on the person. These prescription drugs don't affect the same brain chemicals that stimulants do. Non-stimulants are less likely to have negative side effects however, they take longer to effect and only last for 24 hours. Most of these medications are able to increase the levels of norepinephrine in the brain. This includes antidepressants such as bupropion (Wellbutrin), nortriptyline, and Pamelor.

Psychotherapy

Therapy can help a person learn how adhd medication works to deal with symptoms and develop new coping strategies, such as managing stress and impulsivity. BetterHelp is an online therapy platform, matches people with licensed therapists trained to treat adhd medication how does it work and other mental health conditions. Get a free assessment and be an appointment with a therapist within less than 48 hours. Non-stimulant and stimulant medications can help those with adhd anxiety medication improve their ability to concentrate and decrease impulsivity, however they don't address the root causes of the disorder. In addition to talk therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness-based therapies can teach someone strategies to manage their an impulsive personality and improve their ability to manage their emotions. These techniques can be learned through an adhd medication adderall uk coach or by experimenting with a qualified therapist. Parents and caregivers can be taught these methods to help their child or adult who suffers from ADHD. In some cases it is recommended to combine medications and talk therapy is the best approach.