Does ADHD Medication Work?
If someone is prescribed ADHD medication, they are concerned about how long the treatment will last and if it works. Here are some straightforward solutions.
Stimulants adjust brain chemicals that relay messages regarding attention and activity. Dopamine, norepinephrine and other brain chemicals are also included. They are considered the first-line treatment option for adults with ADHD.
1. Stimulants
Stimulants are the most frequently used medications to manage ADHD. They alter the activity of neurotransmitters in the brain (like dopamine) which help people stay focused and organized. Around 80 percent of ADHD adults and children suffer better symptoms after they discover the right stimulant formulation and dosage.
If prescribed by a physician and taken correctly, these drugs are not addictive. However, when they are misused (like when they are snorted or injected) or used by people without ADHD they could cause addiction and other mental health issues.
Healthcare providers treat ADHD with a variety amphetamine and methylphenidate-based drugs. The majority of doctors begin with a low dose of the medication, and gradually increase the dosage until the patient is able to control over their symptoms. The stimulant medication is available in a variety of forms, including tablets, extended-release and quick-acting.
Side effects are a common aspect of taking stimulant medication, but they usually go away within the first few weeks of treatment, or if you and your doctor alter the dosage. Common side effects of stimulants include reduced appetite, loss of weight or change in appetite, difficulty getting to sleep, an increase in heart rate and irritability, or sadness.
The majority of stimulant medications are safe for the majority of healthy people It's still important to stay clear of illegal drugs and vitamins that claim to treat ADHD. Only doctors and certain other healthcare providers can prescribe these drugs. Supplements like omega-3 fish oils and melatonin aren't scientifically proven to decrease ADHD symptoms.
It is important to consult your doctor if you or your child experiences new side effects as a result of the use of stimulants. It could be an indication that the drug isn't working, or there are other health issues that require attention.
It is also essential to take the medication at the same time each day so that it has the greatest chance of decreasing ADHD symptoms. Some families opt to continue taking stimulant medications after their child has stopped showing symptoms however this isn't required for everyone. It is possible to step back from stimulants, particularly for teens, to see how their brains function and to help them learn how to cope with ADHD.
2. Non-stimulants
Stimulant medication is one of the most well-established forms of ADHD treatment. It is effective in 70 to 80% of children and adults and can improve their ability to pay attention, focus, and control their impulsive behavior. These medications increase the levels of specific brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. These drugs increase dopamine levels and norepinephrine levels which help manage ADHD symptoms like short attention spans and impulsive behavior. These drugs are available in a variety of liquid and tablet forms and include immediate-release formulations which can be taken up to three times per day to get an instant boost in focus and extended-release tablets that work throughout the day.
The latest nonstimulant medicines may be less effective than stimulants, but generally safe for the majority of people. They are available in chewables and capsules. They can be added to food and drinks for children who experience difficulty swallowing pills. Atomoxetine is also known as Strattera, is the first nonstimulant approved for ADHD treatment. It's a selective norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitor that boosts the amount of norepinephrine found in the brain, and is also used to treat depression.
The effects of medications differ for each individual and sometimes it takes time to find the appropriate dosage and formulation for the medication. Be patient and talk to your doctor when you or your child is having problems with the medication.
It's also possible to test different medications, or switch between stimulants and non-stimulants if you're not getting the best results with one. It's important to talk with your doctor about any other medical issues you or your child suffers from and any other medications you're taking (including over-the-counter medications) and the food or drinks you're taking.
It is also recommended to have your blood pressure checked before making any changes to or additions to your ADHD medication. It's often found that methylphenidate-based drugs, such as Adderall and Ritalin, can cause a slight increase in blood pressure in some people. Some people should stop taking their medications during vacations or holidays and then return to school or their home. Regular exercise can improve concentration and decrease risky behaviors associated with ADHD.
3. Other medications
The majority of ADHD medications require a prescription. Doctors must monitor patients to determine the appropriate dosage and drug type. They may also ask teachers and parents to fill out behavior rating scales and observe a person's reaction to the medication, to ensure that the medication is effective and the side effects aren't too bad.
Stimulant drugs are typically the first course of treatment for children and adults suffering from ADHD. They work by increasing the levels of neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine within the brain, which improve attention and decreasing fatigue. They can help 70 to 80 percent of adults and children suffering from ADHD, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. They can help reduce the amount of fidgeting and forgetting, as well as reduce the impulsive behavior such as screaming, jumping, and running and enhance social skills. They can also reduce heart rate and blood pressure. The majority of stimulant medications are available in short-acting formulas (that last between 4 and 6 hours) and long-acting versions (that can take up to 12 hours).
Nonstimulant drugs do not increase the levels of brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine, however they can help alleviate symptoms in around 50% of people with ADHD. They can enhance focus, mood and mood. They can also help with the impulsive behavior. They can also help improve relationships and decrease aggression. They include atomoxetine also known as Strattera (brand name) and viloxazine also known as Qelbree (brandname). These drugs can be used in conjunction with stimulants.
A tiny percentage of people who are taking stimulant medications can become sedated or zombie-like, or they may get tearful or irritable while the medicine is in their system. If this occurs it is because the dose is excessive and must be reduced.
Numerous different medications have been proven to be effective in treating ADHD. It may require several trials and error to discover the one that works best for your child or you. The medication must be taken on a regular basis to ensure its effectiveness. If someone discontinues taking the medication ADHD symptoms will recur. Medication is a lifelong commitment and it takes time to find the right dose and dosage that gives the best results with the fewest adverse effects.
4. Behavioral therapies
For many individuals with ADHD medications do not reduce all their symptoms. Therapy for behavioral issues can help them better manage their symptoms and improve their everyday functioning. It can also improve the relationships they have with others as well as boost their self-esteem and increase their confidence.
Behavioral therapies are usually utilized in combination with ADHD medication. This multi-component treatment method provides the best outcomes for children with ADHD. Combined behavior management and medication are more effective than each approach alone.
A therapist works with the child to help them develop new skills to aid them in overcoming their ADHD symptoms. Most often, this involves teaching them how to organize their life and reducing distractions. This may include teaching them coping skills when they experience emotional distress, such mindfulness meditation and emotion-regulation skills. Behavioral therapy is typically delivered in groups. This allows the therapists to support and reinforce multiple children simultaneously, increasing the likelihood that a child will finish the program.
The therapist could also work with parents to help them learn how to reinforce positive behavior. They will show them how to encourage good behavior and employ discipline when necessary. adhd medications for adults will also help teach the child about time management planning, goal setting and planning. The therapist might recommend the use of a reward chart that allows the child to earn points for completing tasks. The therapist might need to introduce negative consequences, like losing points if the child does not follow through on their obligations.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) may be beneficial for those who are not responding well to medication. This type of therapy concentrates on changing the way people view their issues. It could also help them learn better ways to control their emotions and reduce their impulse-driven behavior.
Behavioral therapies are usually cheaper than prescription drugs. However, they can take longer to show results. If symptoms don't improve after a certain time frame, it's essential to talk with your doctor about what might be making them worse. It could be that the child is not taking their medication correctly, or that the dosage should be increased. It could be that life events are causing stress and making it difficult for the child to focus. Find-a-therapist functions are offered in the ADDA, CHADD's National Resource Center and the ADDitude Directory. These features will help you find an therapist who can provide CBT.