Treatment For ADHD
Psychosocial therapy is the main treatment for add. The drugs include stimulants like methylphenidate, amphetamine and Atomoxetine. They can also be nonstimulants, like clonidine and Guanfacine.
Stimulant medications should not be used in patients with active substance abuse problems but they can be considered in those who are in stable remission. Combination treatment with antidepressants (particularly SSRIs) is also an option.
Stimulants
Stimulants boost dopamine and norepinephrine levels between the brain's synapses. This improves concentration and decreases hyperactivity and impulses. The majority of doctors prescribe medications from the stimulant class to treat ADHD. They might prescribe methylphenidate (Concerta or Ritalin), or amphetamines. They are both similar medications. The type prescribed will depend on the person's biochemistry as well as how well they react to the medication. It could take anywhere from five to seven days before the full effects of the medication are visible. The medicine will work for you if you notice improvement in memory, concentration, sleep, and impulsivity.
Some of the side effects include a decreased appetite, difficulty sleeping and an increase in blood pressure and heart rate. People with medical conditions, such as heart disease or high blood pressure should not use them. These are highly controlled drugs with a potential for abuse. Only psychiatrists or pediatricians or, in some instances general practitioners, may prescribe stimulants. They can be found in the form of pills or tablets or patches that are placed on the skin, or liquids.
Children and adolescents who use stimulants are often affected by weight loss and appetite problems. They may also experience tics when the dose is too high. If this happens, the doctor may reduce the dosage to avoid the drug from leading to a worsening of symptoms.
Around 70 to 80% children and adults with ADHD are treated with stimulant medications. The majority of children and adolescents find that their symptoms improve when treated. This is particularly the case for children who have teachers, parents or caregivers who report improvements.
Early use of stimulants may reduce the risk of developing addiction disorders later in life. adhd in adults treatment and colleagues79,80 Katusic as well as colleagues81,82 and Biederman et al83 found that treatment with stimulants reduces the risk of developing substance abuse disorders in adolescents, but the protective effect diminishes by early adulthood.