Does ADHD Medication Work?
When a person is prescribed ADHD medication, they are concerned about how long the treatment will last and if it works. Here are a few simple solutions.
Stimulants modify brain chemicals that transmit messages about 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 commonly used to treat ADHD. They alter the activity of neurotransmitters (like dopamine) in the brain, which helps people focus and remain organized. About 80 percent of ADHD adults and children suffer improved symptoms once they find the right stimulant formulation and dosage.
If prescribed by a doctor and taken correctly, these drugs are not habit-forming. When they are abused, such as when they are snorted, inhaled, or taken by people with ADHD they can cause addiction.
Healthcare professionals treat ADHD with a range of amphetamine- and methylphenidate-based medications. The majority of doctors begin with a low dosage of the medication and gradually increase the dosage until the patient is able to control over their symptoms. Stimulant medications are available in a variety of forms, including tablets, extended-release and quick-acting.
Common side effects are aspect of taking stimulant medication however, they typically disappear after the first few weeks of treatment or if you and your doctor adjust the dosage. Common adverse effects of stimulants include decreased appetite, weight loss or changes in appetite, difficulty getting to sleep, increased heart rate and irritability or sadness.
Most stimulant medication is safe for most healthy people, but it's important to stay clear of illegal substances and vitamins that claim to treat ADHD. These medications can only be prescribed by doctors and certain healthcare professionals. Additionally, supplements such as melatonin and omega-3 fish oils haven't been proven to reduce ADHD symptoms.
If you or your child is experiencing new side effects after starting an stimulant, it's crucial to speak with your doctor or psychiatrist. It could be a sign the medicine isn't doing its job or that you have other health problems that need attention.
It is also essential to take the medication at the same time every day to ensure it has the greatest chance of decreasing ADHD symptoms. Some families prefer to continue taking stimulant drugs after their child has stopped displaying symptoms, but this is not recommended for all. It's possible to break from stimulants, especially for teens, to see how their brains work and to help them learn how to manage ADHD.
2. Non-stimulants
Stimulant medication is among the most widely-used forms of ADHD treatment. It is effective in 70 to 80 percent of adults and children and can improve their ability to concentrate, pay attention, and control their impulsive behaviors. These drugs work by increasing the levels of certain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters, within the brain. By elevating dopamine and norepinephrine, the drugs help manage ADHD symptoms like short attention span and impulsive behavior. They are available in various liquid and tablet formulations, including immediate-release formulas used up to three times daily for quick focus boosts and extended-release tablets that function throughout the day.
The newest nonstimulant medications might be less effective than stimulants, but are generally safe for most people. They are available in various capsules and chewables, and can be added to food and beverages if you or your child has trouble swallowing pills. Atomoxetine (Strattera) is the first nonstimulant to be approved for ADHD treatment. It's a selective norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitor that increases the level of norepinephrine found in the brain. It's also used to treat depression.
Medications work differently for each individual and sometimes it takes time to find the appropriate dosage and formulation for the medication. Be patient, and speak with your physician about any issues you or your child may have with the medication.
You might also have to try different medications, or even switch between stimulants and non-stimulants if you're not getting the desired results with one. It's crucial to speak with your psychiatrist regarding any other medical issues you or your child suffers from, any other medications you're taking (including over-the-counter medications), and the food or drinks you're taking.
Before you begin or change your ADHD medication, you should also have your blood pressure checked. 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 may have to stop taking their medication during holidays or vacations, and return to it once they're back at school or at home. Getting regular exercise can also help improve your attention, and may reduce risky behaviors linked to ADHD.
3. Other medication
The majority of ADHD medications need prescriptions, and doctors must keep track of patients to determine the appropriate dose and type. Parents and teachers may be required to fill out scales of behavior ratings, and they can also observe the person's reaction to the medication.
Stimulant drugs are typically the first line of treatment for kids and adults with ADHD. They help by increasing the levels of neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine within the brain, thereby increasing attention and decreasing fatigue. They help 70 to 80 percent of children and adults with ADHD, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. They can reduce the tendency to fidget, interrupting, and forgetting things, cut down on impulse-driven behaviors such as running, jumping, and shouting, and help improve social skills and school performance. They can also reduce blood pressure and heart rate. non prescription adhd medication are available in short-acting formulas (that last from 4 to 6 hours) and long-acting forms (that can take up to 12 hours).
Nonstimulant drugs do not increase the brain chemicals dopamine or norepinephrine. However, they can help reduce symptoms for around 50% of ADHD sufferers. They can help with impulsive behaviors, improve mood and focus, and help you follow instructions. They can also lessen aggression and improve relationships. These medicines include atomoxetine (brand name Strattera) and viloxazine (brand name Qelbree). They can also be combined with stimulants.
A small number of adults and children who are taking stimulant medication may become sedated or zombie-like or tearful, angry or depressed. If this occurs it is because the dosage is too high and must be reduced.
ADHD can be treated with a range of medications. It may take a lot more trial and error before you discover the medication that works best for your child or you. The medication must be taken regularly for it to be effective. If a person quits taking the medication, ADHD symptoms will return. It takes time to find the right dosage and medication that provides the most effective results and has the lowest negative side consequences.
4. Behavioral treatments
Many people suffering from ADHD don't find that medication relieves all their symptoms. Behavioral therapy can help improve their ability to manage these symptoms and increase their ability to function in everyday life. It can also improve their relationships with other people, boost their self-esteem, and increase their confidence.
Behavioral therapies are typically utilized in combination with ADHD medication. This multi-component treatment approach is the most effective for children with ADHD. Combining behavior management with medication is more effective than any method on its own.
A therapist will work with the child to help him learn new skills that will help him deal with his ADHD symptoms. This typically involves teaching them strategies for organizing and how to reduce distractions. This may also include teaching them strategies to cope when they are experiencing emotional distress, such as mindfulness meditation and skills for regulating emotions. Behavioral therapy for ADHD is typically provided in groups. This allows therapists to assist and encourage several children simultaneously and increase the chance that a child will complete the program.
The therapist will also assist parents in teaching how to encourage positive behavior. They will help them create an approach to rewarding good behavior and use discipline when necessary. They will also instruct the child about time management and goal setting. Therapists may also suggest using a chart where the child earns points by completing tasks. If the child does not comply with their obligations the therapist may need to introduce negative consequences such as losing points.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) could be beneficial for people who are not responding well to medications. This type of therapy focuses on changing the way the person perceives their problems. It can help them discover how to manage their emotions and decrease their insanity.
Behavioral therapies are typically cheaper than medication. However, they can take longer to demonstrate results. If symptoms do not improve after a specific time frame, it's essential to talk with your doctor about what could be making them worse. It could be because the child isn't taking their medication in the right way or the dosage needs to be increased. It could also be that stressful events in life are creating 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 can help you find an therapist who can provide CBT.