Medication For ADHD - What Are the Side Effects?
medications for adhd in adults with ADHD find their symptoms improve with medication. But each person reacts differently to different medications, and adverse effects can be a problem.
Methylphenidate is a stimulant. It works by increasing levels of a chemical within the brain that aids in controlling the behavior and attention.
Stimulant medications
Stimulant medications improve attention and concentration in 70% to 80% of children and adults who use them. They alter neurotransmitters such as norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. They usually cause an initial increase in blood pressure and heart rate that lasts several hours. Many experts recommend that you begin with a low dose and gradually increase the dose over several weeks.
Stimant medications are consumed orally, typically once or two times a day. They are generally available in short- and long-acting formulas. Short-acting stimulants peak after a short time and must be taken 2-3 times a day. Long-acting stimulants last 8-12 hours and are taken once every day.
These drugs may cause unwanted side effects, such as nausea, insomnia and loss of appetite. Some people can become angry or moody. However, these effects usually fade over time and can be controlled by altering the dosage. In certain instances, stimulants can change your personality. You could become more introverted or irritable, or even more obsessive and rigid. They may also raise the risk of other psychiatric issues, like mania and depression.
Most stimulants are controlled substances, and require the prescription of a doctor. They are frequently misused by adults and adolescents to achieve performance enhancement, and they can result in addiction if used in a manner that is not approved. Because of these risks doctors carefully consider the need for stimulant medication and keep track of the dosage and adverse effects.
Non-stimulant medicines
There are many non-stimulant ADHD medications available, and the one that is best for you depends on your specific needs. These prescription medications don't affect the same brain chemicals that stimulants do. Non-stimulants cause less side effects but can take longer to kick in and last only 24 hours. Most of these drugs are able to increase the levels of norepinephrine in the brain. This includes antidepressants like bupropion (Wellbutrin), nortriptyline, and Pamelor.
Psychotherapy
Therapy can teach people how to deal with their symptoms, and also develop new coping strategies, like controlling impulsivity or stress. BetterHelp, a service that offers therapy online connects people with licensed therapists trained in treating ADHD and other mental illnesses. You can get matched to an therapist within a matter of 48 hours after taking a free online assessment. Non-stimulant or stimulant medications can assist people suffering from ADHD reduce their impulsivity and increase their ability to focus however, they do not tackle the root causes. In addition to talk therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness-based therapies can teach someone methods to manage the impulsive behavior of their children and increase their ability to manage their emotions. These techniques can be learned by an ADHD coach or by practicing them with a therapist who is trained. Parents and caregivers can learn these techniques so they can assist their child or adult with ADHD. In certain instances it is recommended to combine medication and talk therapy is the most effective approach.