ADHD Stimulant Medication
For a lot of people with ADHD medication can help control symptoms and improve their ability to function.1
Stimulants increase certain brain chemicals that help nerves communicate. They can also reduce impulsiveness and aggression.
These medications are available in different forms for children and adults (e.g. tablets, liquids). It may take a while to determine the appropriate dose for each individual.
Types
Stimulant medicines like methylphenidate and amphetamine reduce ADHD symptoms in 70% to 80% of children and adults (Spencer and co., 2005). These medications increase levels of dopamine and norepinephrine. They improve core symptoms of the condition, such as the tendency to fidget, impulsivity, and difficulty paying attention. The drugs also help people achieve their goals and develop better social skills. In general, the medications are best used as part of an overall treatment plan that includes behavioral therapy and training in skills.
Doctors are unable to predict which medication is best for an individual So they begin by testing different dosages until they find the one that works. Some medications take several weeks to reach peak effectiveness. They might have to be adjusted over time, based on how the patient responds as well as side effects. The goal is to find the smallest dosage that can help a person manage their ADHD symptoms effectively.
The types of stimulant medicine available include immediate-release methylphenidate and amphetamine, intermediate release atomoxetine as well as long-acting guanfacine, dexamphetamine. The medication can be consumed in capsule, liquid, or chewable tablet form. Children who are unable to swallow tablets or pills can sprinkle beads on food to take the three extended-release drugs.
These medicines can trigger an increase in appetite or sleepiness, but they tend to improve with continued use. Sleepiness is a common side effect, but doctors typically not give people this kind of medication prior to the time of bed. The effects of amphetamine or methylphenidate is more severe in teenagers and preteens. Parents should be alert for warning symptoms.
If you suffer from heart issues or any other health issues it is crucial 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 those with an addiction history or psychiatric disorders.
Stimulant medications have the potential to be abused, specifically by teens who may take them to lose weight or to achieve a high. Siu and Smith warn that this is a serious concern and puts teens at risk of a heart-related fatality. It is crucial to educate children and teens on the dangers of taking someone else’s prescription or sharing one with a group of friends. It's also crucial to talk to a doctor to discuss the possibility of abuse.
Dosage
The majority of stimulant medications are taken as pills. The dosage is determined by your physician depending on the severity of your symptoms, any medical conditions or other medications you are taking as well as the drug's side effects. Finding the right medication could be a trial-and-error process for many. Communication with your doctor will help you find the right medication.
The most common kind of ADHD stimulant is the methylphenidates (MPH). These drugs are available in long- or short-acting forms and are available in tablets, liquids or chewable tablets. Long-acting formulations take longer to work but can last for as long as eight hours. The shorter-acting ones are quick-acting but wear off more quickly. Typically, doctors start patients on a low dosage and gradually increase the amount until they see improvement in their symptoms.
Certain adults may have to take multiple stimulant drugs to treat their symptoms. Depending on the individual, it may be necessary to use the medication along with other treatment methods like behavioral therapy.
Stimulants have been shown to reduce symptoms of ADHD in 70-80% adults and children. These medications can reduce fidgeting, hyperactivity and an impulsive behaviour. They also aid people to concentrate and complete tasks. They can enhance relationships and overall performance.
The FDA has approved a range of amphetamines and methylphenidates to treat ADHD. These medications are generally well tolerated and efficient. However it is important to note that these drugs are classified as Schedule II controlled substances by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration because they are prone to misuse and abused.
Stimulant drugs can be utilized alongside medications to treat depression or mood disorders. These medications increase levels of norepinephrine, which is a neurotransmitter that assists people to concentrate and regulate their behavior. They can boost attention and reduce impulsivity in some people with ADHD. However they aren't as effective as stimulants when it comes to reducing hyperactivity and inattention.
Some people who are taking these drugs experience a decrease in energy or a feeling of being "on edge." This is known as the crash effect and can trigger depression, severe hunger, and other undesirable side effects. It can also occur after a short-acting stimulant, especially if the person hasn't been taking it for a long time or was using an excessive dose.
Side effects
Stimulant medications work by increasing the levels of dopamine in the brain. This improves the ability to focus and control impulses. The most common stimulants used for ADHD are amphetamines or methylphenidates. The most commonly used types of these medicines are Ritalin, Concerta, Focalin and Adderall. They are available in various dosages and forms, from pills to liquids. These medications are utilized by a lot of adults and children to treat their symptoms with other treatments such as therapy, skill training and lifestyle changes.
These drugs can result in negative side effects like a decreased appetite and difficulty sleeping. If you or your child suffer from these adverse effects, you may require taking medication later in the day, eat more throughout the day, or add snacks. You should also avoid drinking caffeinated drinks. over the counter adhd medication will typically diminish within several days as the body adjusts. It is essential to follow the doctor's instructions regarding dosage and frequency.
The medications aren't the only method to treat ADHD, but they do aid in reducing impulsivity and hyperactivity in 70-80% of people with the condition. You can also get better sleep complete your schoolwork and focus on tasks with the help of medication. Your doctor will discuss the risks and advantages of the medication with you and monitor your response.
Stimulants are categorized as controlled substances, which means that they have a high risk of abuse and addiction. However, when they are taken according to the prescriptions of your doctor they aren't habit-forming. These drugs are often misused by those who do not suffer from ADHD. They may abuse them to increase their alertness or to curb their appetite to lose weight. When taken for medical purposes stimulant medications can be very effective and safe.
Nonstimulants are drugs that do not raise the levels of dopamine or norepinephrine in the body. They take longer to work however, they can enhance your control ability and attention. They are less likely than stimulants to be abused. However, they may cause adverse effects, such as reduced appetite and difficulty sleeping. Examples of nonstimulant medications include Strattera (atomoxetine), Qelbree (viloxazine) and Intuniv (guanfacine). Antidepressants are often used as a single medication or in combination with a stimulant to treat ADHD symptoms.
Overdose
Stimulant medications have a potential to be misused or abused, even when they are prescribed for a legitimate medical reason. Some people who do not suffer from ADHD use these drugs to increase their alertness or to curb their appetite to lose weight. Some may use these drugs to feel "high." People who suffer from ADHD who receive proper treatment from a physician aren't likely develop addictions to these drugs, but these medications do come with the risk of an overdose and death.
Some of the most serious harms associated with nonmedical use involve the consumption of stimulants prescribed by doctors that are typically consumed by mouth but can also occur when these medications are crushed and then dissolved in water to drink, snorted, or injectable. According to research from U.S. Poison Centers these kinds of harms are more prevalent for teenagers who take their own prescription stimulant or medication prescribed by someone else that is not listed in the prescription instructions.
Many children mistakenly follow their parents or older siblings' prescriptions of a stimulant to feel more alert and stay up longer to study for school exams or to become high. These incidents are usually accidental however, they can result in severe poisoning or even heart problems. Some children steal the tablets from their relatives or friends who have a prescription. The tablets can be particularly risky for children with a preexisting heart condition or other health problems that make them susceptible to the drugs' side effects.
The pills are also available without prescription through drug dealers or from illegal sellers on the Internet which could contain fake pills that appear like real prescription stimulants but actually contain dangerous illicit substances. These drugs can also pose a risk when taken in combination with alcohol or other controlled substances such as opioids.
Encourage patients to take the time to read their Medication Guide, which will be included in their filled prescriptions. This guide contains details about the medication, including possible warnings and adverse reactions. It will also explain how to dispose of prescriptions that have expired and that includes taking them back to a pharmacy or another approved disposal facility or site. Encourage them to call the FDA's MedWatch Hotline if they are concerned about their medicine or experiencing any side effects.