ADHD Medication - How Ritalin Helps Kids Manage ADHD
ADHD medication can help kids manage their symptoms. Doctors prescribe stimulants and nonstimulants for treating ADHD.
Stimulants increase the amounts of two brain chemicals--norepinephrine and dopamine--that help kids focus. These medications are the best option for teens and children with ADHD.
Long-acting stimulant formulations
Many people with ADHD start treatment by taking stimulant medications. They work for about 70-80 percent of people suffering from the disorder and are extremely effective in improving concentration and attention. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that you start with a FDA-approved medication. Medications are only available by prescription and should be taken only as directed. Over-the-counter (OTC) supplements or vitamins that are advertised to treat ADHD have no scientific backing, and they can cause harmful side effects when used alongside prescription drugs.
There are numerous long-acting stimulant formulas, each with a customized delivery system and a varying time-action profile. These medications permit clinicians to target specific times of day that are the most challenging for a patient. For instance, patients who have trouble completing morning tasks can benefit from long-acting stimulants such as Dexedrine Spansules, Dextroamphetamine/AMPH patch (Xelstrym), or the newer extended-release oral medication Mydayis (lisdexamfetamine).
Long-acting ADHD medication enters the bloodstream at a slower rate and is less likely to cause adverse effects than short-acting ADHD medication. They typically last for 8 to 16 hours, based on the dosage. The longer duration also allows the medication to provide a more consistent effect throughout the day, making them a good option for adults.
Some possible side effects of long-acting ADHD medications include changes in appetite, upset stomach and an increase in heart rate. Other side effects can include tics and a minor growth delay however, these are generally temporary and tend to disappear after a few days or even weeks as the body adjusts to the drug.
The most popular type of long-acting ADHD medication is methylphenidate. It is the active component in Ritalin as well as other similar medications. It is a stimulant that increases levels of dopamine within the brain. These neurotransmitters are essential chemical messengers that play an important role in motivation, action, and cognition.
The most common stimulant medications used to treat ADHD are methylphenidates (amphetamines) and atomoxetine amphetamines, and atomoxetine. All of these drugs fall under the umbrella of "methylphenidates," but some are designed differently than others. Some are absorbed into the body through the skin while others are ingested orally or administered intravenously.
adhd sleep medication -acting stimulant formulations
There are many formulations of stimulant medications that can be used to treat ADHD in adults. These include all the forms of methylphenidate such as Ritalin, Focalin and Metadate as well as amphetamines, such as Adderall, Dexedrine and Vyvanse. A doctor can also prescribe atomoxetine, which works a little differently than stimulants and lasts longer. There are even some antidepressants with atypical properties that can be used to manage ADHD symptoms, like Wellbutrin (bupropion) and the two antihypertensives Catapres as well as Tenex (clonidine).
Stimulant medications increase the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain. This improves concentration and reduce restlessness for adults and children with ADHD. They also reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity. However, stimulants can lead to adverse effects like dry mouth and blurry vision. Some people may also experience an increase in irritability and anxiety. Some people have trouble sleeping after taking these medications.
A major concern with these drugs is that they may cause the "rebound effect" after the effects diminish. The drugs can also cause an increase in blood pressure and heart rate in some people. If taken as directed by a doctor they are safe and effective for adults.
The best stimulant medication to take for someone with ADHD is a morning dose, before going to school or working. These are called long-acting stimulants. This type of medication can reduce symptoms and prevent the possibility of a rebound.
Other types of the medication can be taken throughout the day, if needed. Short-acting tablets are absorbed quickly and reach their peak in the body. A person who needs regular doses may have to take more than one tablet per day. This can be a challenge for a lot of adults suffering from ADHD.
Stimulants are among the most commonly utilized treatment for ADHD among children, adolescents, and adults. They are the most effective medication for reducing ADHD symptoms. However, they can cause dangerous and life-threatening adverse effects if taken in the wrong way or with excessive dosages. They can also increase the risk of developing depression and other mental health disorders.
Nonstimulant medications
Nonstimulant medicines are an alternative to stimulant drugs like Ritalin when they aren't working or have negative side effects that are too extreme. These medications are less addictive and abuse-prone than stimulants. They work by increasing levels of the brain chemical norepinephrine. Psychiatrists or doctors who specialize in mental disorders are the most likely to prescribe these drugs. They can be prescribed in conjunction with a treatment plan that includes psychosocial treatments and lifestyle changes.
Nonstimulant medications may take a longer time to start working than stimulants. They may also require a higher dosage to achieve the same level of effectiveness. They are typically prescribed in capsule or tablet form and can be taken with or without food. They are more likely than other medications to cause stomach upset or alter blood pressure and heart rate. They are also at an increased risk of developing interactions with other drugs.
Certain ADHD medications can be applied as patches on the skin. They are beneficial for those who are unable to remember to take their medication or have trouble swallowing tablets. These patches are also helpful for children who are tactilely-sensitive and are not comfortable taking medicines by mouth. However, the patch is been used in a limited way for children due to its need for constant application.
It can take a while to determine the ideal combination of medication, dosage and schedule. It's important to communicate clearly and openly with a health professional regarding the way your child or you respond to the medication. It's helpful to keep a journal of your your child's symptoms, as well as any changes that occur due to the medication.
When taking any medication, there are always some negative side effects. These include stomach upset, insomnia and a higher heart rate and weight loss in certain people. adhd medication pregnancy and adolescents who take stimulant drugs may experience a decrease in their growth rate. It is not usually significant. Certain people might experience tics or anxiety. A small percentage of people have a severe response to the medication.
Consult a doctor as quickly when you or your child experiences serious symptoms. Medicines should only be taken as directed by your physician. If you have leftover medication, talk to your pharmacist about the possibility of a prescription drug take-back program or mix it in with cat litter or coffee grounds and dispose of it.
Antidepressants
Many people who are prescribed stimulant drugs for ADHD also receive nonstimulant or antidepressant medications. They can have a relaxing effect and can help manage some of the side effects of stimulants, such as an increase in appetite or difficulty sleeping. Nonstimulant medications are less likely than stimulants to cause depression. They also aid in treating anxiety and bipolar disorders which can be linked to ADHD.
Stimulants used to treat ADHD can be misused and even abused. Kids and teens who do not have ADHD may take them to increase their alertness or to reduce their appetite in order to lose weight. Others may take them to get "high." These substances are included in Schedule I drugs, which have a high risk of addiction. If they are prescribed correctly and taken by adults, they don't increase the risk of addiction.
Methylphenidate is the most well-known medication for ADHD, is a type of stimulant. It increases activity in brain areas that regulate behavior and attention. It's available in tablets that release immediately (small doses taken 2 to 3 times per day) and modified-release tablets which release the drug throughout the day. It's also available in chewable and liquid medicine.
Certain people who take stimulant medication for ADHD have a brief period of fatigue, a bad mood, and increased activity when the medication wears off. This is known as the rebound effect. Altering the time you take your medicine or altering your dosage could alleviate these symptoms.
Intuniv, a medication that acts for a long time that contains guanfacine for people suffering from ADHD is a different option. This blood pressure medication is a kind of alpha-2 adrenergic antagonist, and it has been found to be significantly effective in decreasing impulsive and hyperactive behaviors in adults. It doesn't appear to be as effective in reducing inattention symptoms, though.
Finding the right ADHD medication for your child or you may take some time. Your doctor is likely to start with low doses and increase them gradually until you discover the dosage that is most effective in controlling your symptoms while causing most minimal side effects. You'll need to see your GP regularly for regular checkups and to see whether the dosage should be adjusted.