ADHD Stimulant Medication
Many people with ADHD find that medication helps their symptoms be controlled and improves their ability to function.
Stimulants boost certain brain chemicals that allow nerves to communicate with each other. They can also reduce aggression and impulsiveness.
These medications come in different forms (eg tablets, tablets, liquids) and are available to children and adults. It can take some time to find the right dosage for each individual.
Types
Stimulant drugs like methylphenidate or amphetamine may ease ADHD symptoms for 70 - the majority of children and adults (Spencer, et al. 2005). These medications boost levels of dopamine and norepinephrine. These drugs help to reduce the primary symptoms of the disorder, like fidgeting and impulsivity, and difficulty paying attention. The medications also help people accomplish tasks and improve their social skills. In general, the medications are most effective when utilized as part of an overall treatment plan that includes behavioral therapy and skills training.
Doctors are unable to predict which medication is most suitable for a person Therefore, they begin by testing various doses to determine the one that works. Some medications take several weeks to reach their maximum effectiveness. They may require adjustments according to the patient's response and side effects. The aim is to find the most minimal possible dose that still helps people manage their ADHD symptoms effectively.
T here are three types of stimulant medicines that are immediate-release amphetamine and methylphenidate, intermediate release Atomoxetine and long-acting dexamphetamine and guanfacine. The medication is available as a liquid or capsule, or as a chewable tablet. Children who have trouble swallowing tablets or pills can sprinkle beads onto food to take three extended-release drugs.
These medications can cause an increase in appetite and sleepiness, but they usually improve after regular use. Insomnia can be a consequence of these drugs however doctors attempt to avoid giving them before the time of bed. Insomnia from methylphenidate or amphetamine is more common in teenagers and preteens. Parents should be on the lookout for warning signs.
If you suffer from heart issues or any other health issues it is crucial to discuss these medications with your doctor. These medications can trigger an abrupt rise in blood pressure and heart rate. People with a history of substance use or psychiatric disorders are not advised to take them.
The stimulant drugs are likely to be abused, specifically by teens who might 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 a heart-related death. It's crucial to educate kids and teens about the dangers of taking a prescription from someone else or sharing their own with friends, and to talk with a physician about the possibility of abuse.
Dosage
Stimulant medications are usually taken as pills. The dosage is determined by your doctor according to the severity of your symptoms, medical conditions or other medications you are taking, as well as the drug's adverse effects. Many people discover that finding the right medication is a trial-and-error process which is why being open with your doctor is important.
A typical kind of ADHD stimulant is methylphenidates (MPH). These medications are available in long- or short-acting forms, and are available as tablets, liquids or chewable tablets. Long-acting formulations can last up to eight hours. The formulations with a shorter duration have more effect, but fade quicker. Typically, doctors start patients on a small dose, and gradually increase the dosage until they see improvement in their symptoms.
Certain adults may have to take multiple stimulant medications to treat their symptoms. Based on the individual, it might be necessary to take the medication along with other treatment options, such as behavioral therapy.
Stimulants have been proven to decrease symptoms of ADHD in 70-80% of adults and children. These medications decrease hyperactivity, interruptions, fidgeting and impulsive behaviors. They can also assist people focus and finish tasks. They can improve relationships and overall function.
The FDA has approved a number of methylphenidates, and amphetamines to treat ADHD. These medications are generally well tolerated and efficient. It is important to remember that these medications can be misused and abused. They are classified by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration as Schedule II controlled drugs.
Stimulant medications can be used with medications to treat depression or mood disorders. These drugs work by increasing levels of norepinephrine. It is a neurotransmitter that aids people in concentrating and manage their behavior. They can improve attention and reduce the amount of impulsivity among people suffering from ADHD. However, they are not as efficient as stimulants in reducing hyperactivity and inattention.
The crash effect can trigger depression, extreme appetite and other unpleasant side effects. It can also occur when someone is coming off a short acting stimulant especially if they haven't used for a long period of period of time or used an extremely high dose.
Side effects
Stimulant medications work by increasing the levels of dopamine that are present in the brain. This improves the ability to focus and control impulses. The majority of stimulants used to treat ADHD are methylphenidates or amphetamines. The most popular types of these medicines are Ritalin, Concerta, Focalin and Adderall. They are available in different forms and dosages, ranging from liquid to pills. These medications are used by many adults and children to manage their symptoms with other treatments such as therapy, training for skills and lifestyle changes.
These drugs can cause adverse effects, such as a decrease in appetite and difficulty sleeping. If you experience these side effects, you or your child may require taking the medication at a later date or eat more food during the day, or have snacks, and avoid caffeinated beverages. These side effects usually disappear after a few weeks as your body adjusts to the medication and it is essential to follow your doctor's advice regarding dosage and frequency.
The medication isn't the only way to treat ADHD, but they do reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity in 70-80% of people who suffer from the condition. You can also improve your sleeping, finish your schoolwork and concentrate on tasks by taking medication. Your doctor will go over the risks and benefits of medication with you, and then monitor your response.
Stimulants fall under the controlled substance category which means that they pose a risk of abuse and addiction. When prescribed by a doctor, stimulants are not addictive. People who don't have ADHD frequently use these drugs to feel more alert and less hungry to lose weight, or feel the sensation of a "high." If taken for medical reasons stimulant medication are extremely efficient and secure.
Nonstimulants don't increase the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the body. They usually take longer to begin working however they can enhance your ability to pay attention and control impulses. They are less likely to be misused but they can have side effects such as a decrease in appetite or difficulty sleeping. Examples of nonstimulant medications include Strattera (atomoxetine), Qelbree (viloxazine) and Intuniv (guanfacine). Antidepressants are often used as a single medication or in conjunction with stimulants to treat ADHD symptoms.
Overdose
These medications are likely to be misused or abused even when they're prescribed to serve a legitimate medical need. People who don't have ADHD could use these medications to feel more alert or reduce their appetite to reduce weight, or just to feel "high." People with ADHD who receive appropriate treatment from a physician aren't likely develop addictions to these medicines, but these medications do carry the risk of overdose and death.
Some of the most serious harms caused by nonmedical use are the consumption of stimulants prescribed by doctors which is usually done by mouth but can also occur when these medicines are crushed and dissolved in water to drink, snorted, or injected. According to data from U.S. Poison Centers these types of harms are most common among teenagers who are using their own prescription stimulant or medication prescribed by a different person who is not mentioned on the prescribing instructions.
Many young children misunderstand their parents or older siblings' prescriptions of a stimulant in order to feel more alert and stay up longer to study for school tests, or become high. These cases are usually accidents but they can also lead to severe poisoning or even heart problems. Some children acquire the tablets by stealing them from family members or friends who have an prescription. The tablets are particularly dangerous for kids who have a preexisting heart condition or other health issues that can make them sensitive to the drug's side effects.
These drugs are also available without a prescription from dealers in drugs or illegal sellers online. They may contain fake pills which look like prescription stimulants, but contain dangerous illegal substances. These drugs also are a danger when taken with alcohol or other controlled substances, such as opioids.
Encourage patients to read the Medication Guide that will be provided with their filled prescription(s) to learn about the medicine, including warnings and adverse reactions. It will also provide instructions on how to store and dispose of prescriptions that are not used and that includes taking them back to a pharmacy or another authorized disposal facility or location. Also, encourage them to call FDA's MedWatch hotline should they have any questions or concerns about their medicines or any side reactions they encounter.