adhd medication for adults uk and Therapy For ADHD
A combination of medication and therapy can help manage ADHD symptoms. The medication treats the brain, while therapy helps people manage and develop skills.
The stimulants like methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine increase the levels of two chemicals that transmit messages between cells within the brain. This increases the rate of attention and impulse control. The stimulants can cause adverse effects, including sleeplessness, decreased appetite, and increased blood pressure and heart rate.
Stimulants
Stimulants are often the first drugs used to treat ADHD. They boost levels of dopamine and norepinephrine which help the brain function normally. These medications help improve focus and decrease the frequency of interruptions, hyperactivity and fidgeting. They also improve interpersonal relationships, and help people complete tasks and get organized. The effects are not long-lasting and can have serious side-effects. These medications can trigger changes in the personality of some people, particularly those with a past history of Bipolar disorder or depression. They may be more introverted or rigid more withdrawn, less sociable and spontaneous, or develop symptoms of obsessive compulsive disorders. They can also increase blood pressure and heartbeat. Patients with heart conditions are at increased risk for these side effects and should be monitored closely by a doctor while taking stimulants.
Short-acting stimulants are available in two different dosages. Those that peak after several hours require taking at least three times per day in order to achieve their maximum effect. Long-acting or extended-release drugs work for 8-12 hours and are taken once per day. Both types can have negative effects on appetite, growth, and sleep, so it's important to talk to your doctor about how the medication may affect you or your child prior to beginning it.
It may take a while to determine the appropriate dosage and medication for a person who suffers from ADHD Be patient. Your doctor will try different medications in small doses to see which ones manage the symptoms best and have the least negative side consequences. They may need to adjust the dosage dependent on how you or your child responds.
The side effects of ADHD medication can be severe or uncomfortable however, they typically disappear within some weeks or days as your body becomes accustomed to the medicine. The adverse effects of ADHD medications include stomach upset, a loss of appetite as well as increased blood pressure, heart rate and tics. Certain teenagers and children who take stimulants may suffer from a decrease in growth or a slight delay of their final height.
Symptoms can return if the medication is stopped and it's crucial to talk to your doctor whether it's right for you or your child to continue taking it. It is important to follow up with your doctor regularly to ensure the medication is working, and that there aren't any problems or side effects.
Non-stimulant drugs for ADHD require more time to perform than stimulants, however they can help improve concentration and decrease impulsivity and hyperactivity. While they don't have as much of a risk for abuse or dependence as stimulants do, they increase the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain.
Certain states have laws that require doctors to monitor patients who are taking certain medications, which includes ADHD medications. These laws require that doctors meet with you or your child on a regular basis in person, or by phone, to ensure that the medication is safe and effective, and to assess the person's improvement. In addition to monitoring the effectiveness of your your child's ADHD medication, they should also be looking for other indications and signs of problems such as anxiety, depression, or suicidal thoughts.