Does ADHD Medication Work?
When someone is given ADHD medication, they are concerned about how long the treatment will last and if it will be effective. Here are some simple answers.
Stimulants affect the levels of brain chemicals that transmit messages about the level of attention and activity. Dopamine, norepinephrine and other brain chemicals are also included. They are the first-line option for adults with ADHD.
1. Stimulants
Stimulants are frequently used to treat ADHD. They alter the activity of neurotransmitters in the brain (like dopamine), which helps people remain focused and organized. Around 80% of ADHD children and adults experience improvement in symptoms once they have found the right stimulant formulation and dose.
When prescribed by medication for adhd and taken in the right way, these drugs are not addictive. However, if they are misused (like when they are snorted or injected) or used by people with ADHD, they can result in addiction and other mental health problems.
Healthcare professionals treat ADHD with a range of amphetamine- and methylphenidate-based medications. Most doctors begin with a small dose the medication, and then increase it gradually until the patient is able control their symptoms. Stimulant medications also come in many different forms from tablets to extended-release and quick-acting.
The risk of experiencing side effects is a normal aspect of taking stimulant medication however, they tend to disappear within the first few weeks of treatment or if you and your doctor adjust the dosage. Some of the side effects of stimulants include decreased appetite, weight loss or a change in appetite. They can also trigger sleep problems, an increased heart rate, irritation, or sadness.
medication for adhd are safe for healthy people. However, it is important to stay clear of illegal substances or supplements that claim to treat ADHD. Only doctors and certain other health professionals are able to prescribe these medications. Additionally, supplements such as melatonin and omega-3 fish oils aren't proven to reduce ADHD symptoms.
If you or your child experiences new side effects after starting a stimulant, it's important to consult your doctor or psychiatrist. It may be an indication that the drug isn't working, or there are other health issues that require attention.
It's also crucial to take the medication at the same time every day to ensure that it has the best chance of reducing ADHD symptoms. Some families choose to continue taking stimulant medications after their child has stopped showing symptoms, but this is not recommended for all. It is possible to break from stimulants, particularly for teenagers, to observe how their brains work and assist them in learning to manage ADHD.
2. Non-stimulants
Stimulant medication is among the most well-established methods of ADHD treatment. It is effective for 70-80 percent of children and adults. It can improve their ability to concentrate, pay attention, and control their impulsive behavior. These drugs work by increasing the levels of certain chemicals, referred to as neurotransmitters, in the brain. These drugs increase dopamine levels and norepinephrine levels which aid in managing ADHD symptoms such as short attention spans as well as impulsive behavior. They are available in a variety of tablet and liquid formulations including immediate-release formulas that are that are taken twice to three times daily to boost focus and concentration. They also have extended-release tablets that function throughout the day.
The newer nonstimulant medications may be less effective than stimulants, however they generally, they are safe for the majority of people. They are available in a variety of chewables and capsules. They can be added to foods and beverages if you or your child is having trouble swallowing pills. Atomoxetine (Strattera) is the first nonstimulant to be approved for ADHD treatment. It is a selective norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitor, which increases the amount norepinephrine in the brain. It is also employed to treat depression.
Different medications work for each person and sometimes it takes time to find the right dosage and formulation for the medication. Be patient and consult your doctor in case you or your child is having problems with the medication.
It's possible to switch between stimulants and non-stimulants if one isn't working for you. It's essential to speak to your psychiatrist about any other medical issues you or your child suffers from or any other medications you're taking (including over-the-counter medication), and what you're eating or drinking.
You should also have your blood pressure measured prior to making any changes to or additions to your ADHD medication. 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 individuals may need to take a break from their medication during holidays or vacations, then return to it when they're back at school or at home. Regular exercise can help improve your attention, and may reduce risky behaviors that are associated with ADHD.
3. Other medications
The majority of ADHD medications require a prescription. Doctors must monitor patients to determine the right dosage and type of drug. Parents and teachers may be asked to fill out behavior rating scales as well as examine the person's reactions to the medication.
Stimulant drugs are typically the first course of treatment for adults and children with ADHD. They work by increasing the levels of neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which improve the ability to focus and reducing fatigue. They help 70 to 80 percent of adults and children suffering from ADHD, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. They can reduce fidgeting and forgetting, decrease the impulsive behavior such as running, jumping and yelling and enhance social skills. They can also lower blood pressure and heart rate. The majority of stimulant medications are both short-acting (that lasts from 4 to 6 hours) and long-acting (that can last up to 12 hours).
Nonstimulant drugs do not increase the brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine. However, they do help reduce symptoms for around 50% of ADHD sufferers. They can help with impulsive behaviors enhance mood and focus and help you follow directions. They can also help improve relationships and decrease aggression. They include atomoxetine also known as Strattera (brand name), and viloxazine, also known as Qelbree (brandname). These medications can be taken in conjunction with stimulants.
A small percentage of adults and children taking stimulant medications may become numb or sluggish or even angry or tearful while the medicine is in their system. If this happens, it's an indication that the dose is too high and must be lowered.
Numerous different drugs have been discovered to be effective in treating ADHD. It could take more trial and error to find the medication that works best for your child or you. To be effective, the medication should be used regularly. If a person quits taking the medication, ADHD symptoms will return. It is a commitment for the whole life and it takes time to find the right dosage and drug that provides the best results with the fewest negative side effects.
4. Behavioral treatments
For many people suffering from ADHD medication is not enough to alleviate all of their symptoms. Behavioral therapy may assist them in managing their symptoms and improve their daily functioning. It can also improve the relationships they have with others, boost their self-esteem, and boost their confidence.
Behavioral therapies are typically used in conjunction ADHD medication. This multi-component treatment approach will yield the most effective outcomes for children suffering from ADHD. Combining medication and behavior management is more effective than each method by itself.
Therapists work with the child to teach him new skills that can help him deal with his ADHD symptoms. Often this involves teaching them organizational strategies and decreasing distractions. It could also include teaching them coping strategies in times of emotional distress, for example mindfulness meditation and coping with emotions. Behavioral therapy is typically delivered in groups. This allows the therapist to provide assistance and encouragement to several children at a time, which increases the likelihood that the child will stick with the program.
The therapist will also assist parents in teaching how to reinforce positive behavior. They will show them how to reward good behavior and apply discipline when necessary. They will also teach the child about time management, planning and goal setting. The therapist might also suggest using a chart in which the child can earn points for completing a task. If the child fails to adhere to their responsibilities, the therapist might need to give negative consequences such as losing points.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) could be beneficial for those who are not responding well to medication. This type of therapy concentrates primarily on changing the way people view their issues. It also helps them control their emotions and lessen impulsive behaviors.
Behavioral therapies are typically cheaper than medications. However, they may take longer to yield results. If symptoms do not improve after a certain amount of time, it is important to talk with the doctor about what could be the cause of them becoming worse. It could be that the child isn't taking their medicine correctly, or that the dosage needs to be increased. It could be that stressful life circumstances can be affecting the child's focus. CHADD and its National Resource Center, ADDA and the ADDitude Directory all have find-a-therapist features that can provide a list of therapists who offer CBT.