ADHD Stimulant Medication
For many people suffering from ADHD, medication helps control symptoms and enhance their ability to function.1
Stimulants boost certain brain chemicals which help nerves communicate. They can also reduce aggression and impulsiveness.
These drugs are available in various forms for both children and adults (e.g. tablets and liquids). It may take a while to find the correct dosage for each individual.
Types
The use of stimulants such as methylphenidate and amphetamine can help ease ADHD symptoms for 70% to the majority of children and adults (Spencer, et al. 2005). These medications boost levels of dopamine, as well as norepinephrine. They help alleviate the primary symptoms of the condition, such as fidgeting, impulsivity and difficulty paying attention. The drugs also help people achieve their goals and develop better social skills. In general, the medications are most effective when utilized in conjunction with a treatment plan that incorporates behavior therapy and training in skills.
Doctors aren't able to predict which medication will be best for a particular person, so they usually start with a trial of medication to figure out the dose that is effective. Medications can take several weeks to achieve their peak effectiveness. They might need to be adjusted over time based on the patient's response as well as adverse effects. The objective is to find a dose that is effective in managing ADHD symptoms while still being as low as it is possible to be.
The types of stimulant medicine available are immediate-release methylphenidate and amphetamine, intermediate-release atomoxetine as well as long-acting guanfacine, dexamphetamine. Medication can be taken in liquid, capsule or chewable tablet form. Children who are unable to swallow tablets or pills can sprinkle beads on their food to take the three extended-release medications.
These medications can trigger an increase in appetite as well as sleepiness. However, they improve with continued use. Insomnia is a possible side effect of these medications however doctors attempt to avoid giving them before time of sleep. The occurrence of insomnia caused by amphetamine or methylphenidate is more severe in teenagers and preteens. Parents must be aware for warning signs.
If you suffer from heart issues or any other health issues, it is important to discuss the medications you are taking with your doctor. They can trigger an abrupt increase in blood pressure or heart rate and shouldn't be used by people who have a history of substance abuse or psychiatric issues.
Stimulant medications have the potential to be abused, particularly by teens who may take them to lose weight or to gain a high. Siu and Smith warn that this is a serious issue and puts teens at risk of heart-related death. It's crucial to educate kids and teens on the dangers of taking someone else's prescription or sharing one with friends. Also, it's important to consult with a physician to discuss the possibility of abuse.
Dosage
The stimulant medication is typically used in the form of pills. The dosage is determined by your doctor depending on the severity of your symptoms, medical conditions or other medications you're taking as well as the drug's side effects. Finding the right medication could be a trial and error process for many. Open communication with your doctor can aid you in locating the proper medication.
MPH is a common ADHD stimulant. They are available in liquid, chewable tablet or chewable form. They can be prescribed as short- or long acting. Long-acting formulations can last up to eight hours. The shorter-acting formulations have a quick effect however they wear off faster. Typically, doctors start patients on a small dose and gradually increase the amount until they see improvement in their symptoms.
Some adults may need to take multiple stimulant drugs to treat their symptoms. Based on the individual, it could be necessary to use the medication along with other treatment options like behavioral therapy.
Stimulants have been proven to decrease symptoms of ADHD in 70-80% of adults and children. They reduce the frequency of fidgeting, hyperactivity, interruptions and an impulsive behaviour. They can also help people focus and complete tasks. They can improve the quality of relationships and overall functioning.
The FDA has approved a number of methylphenidates and amphetamines for the treatment of ADHD. They are generally tolerated and efficient. It is important to remember that these drugs can be misused and abused. They are classified by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration as Schedule II controlled drugs.
Medications to treat depression or mood disorders can be used in conjunction with stimulant medication. These medications work by increasing levels of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter that aids people in concentrating and control their behavior. They can improve attention and reduce the amount of impulsivity among people suffering from ADHD. However they aren't as effective as stimulants in reducing hyperactivity and inattention.
The crash effect can lead to depression, extreme appetite and other unpleasant side-effects. This can also happen when someone is taking an inactive stimulant, particularly if they haven't used for a long period of time or were using an extremely high dose.
Side effects
Stimulant medicines help by boosting levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which help increase attention and control over impulses. The majority of stimulants prescribed to treat ADHD are methylphenidates or amphetamines. The most common kinds of these medications are Ritalin, Concerta, Focalin and Adderall. They are available in various dosages and forms, from liquid to pills. A large number of adults and children take these drugs to manage their symptoms, as well as other treatments such as therapy, skills training, and lifestyle changes.
These drugs may cause adverse effects, including a decreased appetite or difficulty sleeping. If you or your child experience these side effects, you might need to take medication later in the day, eat more during the day, or incorporate snacks. It is also recommended to avoid drinking beverages with caffeine. These side effects typically disappear within a few weeks as the body adjusts to the medicine and it is crucial to follow your doctor's advice regarding dosage and frequency.
The medication isn't the only way to treat ADHD however they do aid in reducing impulsivity and hyperactivity in 70-80% of those with the condition. You can also improve your sleep and finish your schoolwork, and focus on tasks with the help of medications. Your doctor will evaluate your symptoms, discuss the potential risks and benefits of medication, and also monitor your reaction to the drug.
Stimulants are classified as controlled substances, which means they have a high chance of abuse and addiction. If taken as directed by a doctor stimulants aren't addictive. People who do not have ADHD often use these medications to increase their alertness or to curb their appetites in order to lose weight, or to experience an "high." If taken for medical reasons, stimulant medications are extremely efficient and safe.
Nonstimulants are medications that do not boost the levels of norepinephrine or dopamine in the body. They usually take longer to begin working however, they can increase your ability to pay attention and control impulses. They are less likely than stimulants to be abused. However, they may cause side effects such as decreased appetite and difficulty in sleeping. Examples of non-stimulant medications include Strattera (atomoxetine), Qelbree (viloxazine) and Intuniv (guanfacine). adhd medication list are able to be used as a single medication or combined with stimulants to treat ADHD symptoms.
Overdose
Stimulant medications have a potential to be misused or even abused, even when they are prescribed to serve a legitimate medical need. People who don't suffer from ADHD may abuse these medicines to increase their alertness, curb their appetites to lose weight, or simply to feel "high." People who suffer from ADHD who receive the proper treatment from a doctor aren't likely to develop an addiction to these medicines, but these medications do come with the risk of an overdose and death.
Ingestion of prescription stimulants can cause serious harm. It is typically done by mouth, but it could also occur when the medications are crushed, dissolved in water, and then snorted or injectable. According to research from U.S. Poison Centers these types of harms are most common for teenagers who take their own prescription stimulant or medication prescribed by a different person who is not listed in the prescription instructions.
Many young kids mistakenly take their parents or older siblings' prescription of a stimulant to feel more awake or stay up later to study for school exams or to get high. These cases are usually accidents however, they can result in extreme poisoning, or even heart issues. Children may steal tablets from friends or relatives who have prescriptions. The tablets can be particularly risky for children with a preexisting heart condition or other health problems that make them susceptible to the drug's side effects.
They are also available without a prescription from dealers in drugs or illegal sellers online. They could contain fake pills which look like prescription stimulants, but they contain dangerous illegal substances. These drugs can also can be dangerous when used together with alcohol or other controlled substances like opioids.
Encourage patients to read their Medication Guide, which will be included with their filled prescriptions. This guide contains details about the medicine, including warnings and potential adverse effects. The guide will also provide the proper way to keep and dispose of prescriptions that are not needed by returning them to a pharmacy or other authorized disposal facilities or sites. Encourage them to contact the FDA's MedWatch Hotline if they are concerned about their medicine or experiencing any side negative effects.