ADHD Medication - How Ritalin Helps Kids Manage ADHD
ADHD medication can help children manage their symptoms. Doctors prescribe stimulants and nonstimulants to treat ADHD.
Stimulants increase the amounts of two brain chemicals--norepinephrine and dopamine--that help kids focus. These medications are the first option for kids and teens with ADHD.
Long-acting stimulant formulations
Stimulant medications are the first treatment option for many who suffer from ADHD. They are highly effective in improving attention and concentration for 70-80% of people who suffer from ADHD. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends starting with an FDA-approved medication. The medications are only available through prescription, and they must be taken according to the directions. Over-the-counter (OTC) supplements or vitamins that are advertised to treat ADHD are not backed by scientific research and can result in adverse side effects if used with prescription medications.
There are numerous long-acting stimulant formulas each with a specific delivery system and a distinct time-action profile. These medications provide clinicians with the ability to pinpoint times of the day when a patient is most impaired. 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 drugs enter the bloodstream slower and are less likely to cause adverse effects than short-acting ADHD drugs. They last between 8 and 16 hours based on the medication. The longer duration permits a more consistent and long-lasting effect, which is ideal for adults.
Long-acting ADHD medication can trigger side effects like changes in appetite, stomach upset or an increase in heartbeat. iampsychiatry.com include tics and minor delays in growth. These are only temporary and typically disappear once the body adjusts.
Methylphenidate is one of the most popular long-acting ADHD medication. It is the active ingredient in Ritalin and other medications and it is able to increase the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. These neurotransmitters play an essential role in motivation, cognition and action.
The most popular stimulant medications used to treat ADHD are methylphenidates (amphetamines) and atomoxetine and amphetamines. All of these medications are included under the umbrella of "methylphenidates," but some are designed differently than others. Some are absorbed into the body through the skin while others are consumed orally or injected intravenously.
Short-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, including Ritalin, Focalin and Metadate, as well as amphetamines, such as Adderall, Dexedrine and Vyvanse. A doctor may also prescribe atomoxetine, which functions a bit different from stimulants and lasts longer. There are also some atypical antidepressants which work well for ADHD symptoms. They include Wellbutrin (bupropion) as well as the two antihypertensives, Catapres as well as Tenex.
Stimulant medicines are effective in increasing neurotransmitter levels in the brain. This can improve concentration and reduce restlessness in children and adults suffering from ADHD. The medication also reduces impulsivity and hyperactivity. However, stimulants can lead to adverse effects like dry mouth and blurred vision. They can also increase anxiety, irritability and appetite for some people. Some people have trouble sleeping when taking these drugs.
The "rebound effect" is a condition that occurs when the drug's effects wear off is a major problem. These drugs can cause an increase in blood pressure and heart rate in certain people. If taken as directed by a doctor, however these drugs are safe and effective for adults.
The most effective type of stimulant medication for people who suffers from ADHD is one that can be taken in the morning before school or at work. These are called long-acting stimulants. This type of drug can help avoid a rebound effect and may alleviate symptoms in the afternoon and evening as well.
If needed, different types of the medication can be taken throughout the day. Short-acting pills are absorbed quickly and reach their peak in the body. A person who needs them regularly may need to take more than one tablet each day. This can be a problem for many adults with ADHD.
Stimulants are the most popular and widely-used treatment for ADHD in children, adolescents and adults. They are regarded as the most effective medication for decreasing ADHD symptoms. However, they may cause life-threatening and serious 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
If stimulant medications like Ritalin don't work or cause unacceptably adverse effects, nonstimulant medications can be used to treat ADHD symptoms. These drugs have lower risks of addiction and abuse than stimulants. They function by increasing levels of the brain chemical norepinephrine. These drugs are usually prescribed by doctors who specialize in mental health issues, or psychiatrists. They may be used as part of a complete treatment plan that includes psychosocial treatments and lifestyle adjustments.
Nonstimulant medications can take longer to effect than stimulants. It is also possible to take a higher dose in order to achieve the same effectiveness. They are usually prescribed in a capsule or tablet form, and can be taken with food or without. They are more likely to cause stomach upset, or alter heart rate and blood pressure. They also be at risk of developing drug interactions with other drugs which is why it is important to monitor them carefully.
Some ADHD medications are available in patch form which can be placed on the skin. These are useful for people who don't remember to take their medication, or have trouble swallowing tablets. These patches are also beneficial for children who are sensitive to touch and do not like taking medication through the mouth. However, the patch has been used in a limited way for children due to its need for constant application.
Finding the right combination of dosage and schedule can take some time. It is important to be honest and open with your doctor about the way your child reacts to the medication. Keep a journal of your symptoms or the symptoms of your child, as well as any changes in medication.
There are always side effects of taking any medication. Some people experience stomach upsets, difficulty sleeping, an increased heart rate, and weight loss. Children and adolescents who take stimulant medication may notice a decrease in their growth rate, although this is not usually significant. Some individuals might experience tics or anxiety. A small percentage of people have a severe response to the medication.
If you or your child experiences serious symptoms, consult your doctor immediately. Medications should only be taken according to the instructions of your physician. If you have any leftover medication, talk to your pharmacist about the possibility of a prescription drug take-back program or mix it in with coffee grounds or cat litter and take it away.
Antidepressants
Many people who take stimulant medications for ADHD also take nonstimulant or an antidepressant medication. They can have a relaxing effect and can help manage certain side effects of stimulants, like an increase in appetite or trouble sleeping. In general, non-stimulant drugs are less likely to cause depression than stimulants. They also aid in treating anxiety and bipolar disorders which can be linked to ADHD.
Stimulants used to treat ADHD have a great potential for misuse and abuse. Kids and teens without ADHD might use them to feel more alert or reduce their appetites to shed weight. Others may use them to get "high." Stimulants are Schedule I drugs with 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 commonly used medication used to treat ADHD is a kind of stimulant. It increases activity in brain areas that regulate behavior and attention. It's available in immediate-release tablets (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 are able to experience a brief period of fatigue, a bad mood, and increased activity when the medication has worn off. This is known as the rebound effect. Changing the time of day you take your medication or adjusting your dosage can alleviate these symptoms.
Intuniv, a long-acting medication that contains guanfacine for people suffering from ADHD, is another option. This blood pressure medication is a type alpha-2 adrenergic antagonist, has been shown to be effective in reducing hyperactivity in adults. It does not appear to be as effective in reducing symptoms of inattention.
It may take some time to find the right ADHD dosage and medication for you or your child. Your doctor is likely to start with small doses and gradually increase them to find a combination that will control your symptoms with the lowest number of adverse effects. You should visit your GP regularly for regular check-ups and determine if the dosage needs to be adjusted.