ADHD and Medication
Medications can help people with ADHD focus, manage hyperactivity and impulsive behavior and finish tasks. They can also decrease depression and anxiety.
Stimulants are the medicines that are most commonly prescribed to children and teens with ADHD. They include amphetamines (such as Adderall and Dexedrine) and the methylphenidates (such as Focalin and Ritalin). Doctors closely monitor children to look for signs of addiction.
Stimulants
The most commonly prescribed medication by doctors to treat ADHD is stimulants. They are thought to improve the activity in areas of the brain responsible for attention and behavior. Methylphenidate is a common medication used to treat ADHD and doctors may also prescribe amphetamines or a more recent treatment called quebrachine (brand name Quelbree). adhd medication are usually prescribed in formulations with a long-acting effect or with extended release so that they build up slowly and are released more gradually. This can reduce the chance of adverse side effects and reduce risk of a sudden “reboundeffects as the drug wears off.
Researchers believe that stimulants can assist people suffering from ADHD due to their ability to increase levels of dopamine, a neurotransmitter found in the brain. Dopamine is known to improve concentration and focus, as well as reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. These drugs can also boost the activity of neurons that send signals to the nucleus abdomens, which is involved in motivation, pleasure and reward.
Research suggests that people with ADHD have lower levels of dopamine in the frontal cortex, an area of the brain that is responsible for the "executive" functions such as organizing and planning. This can cause difficulties with time management, performing tasks and suppressing emotions. Researchers have also found that stimulant medications can improve the frontal cortex function of people with ADHD. adhd medication is done by blocking the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine.
Some people suffering from ADHD do not respond well to stimulant medication or are not tolerant of these medications. This can be because of the potential for abuse and addiction and intolerance to certain side effects, such as jitteriness or insomnia. Other medications, such as antidepressants with atypical properties, such as Wellbutrin or tricyclic antidepressants might be prescribed in these cases. These are often prescribed "off-label" for ADHD because they are thought to improve the attention span of some patients and have a low risk of misuse or addiction.
In some instances psychoeducation may be offered to help children, teenagers and adults to understand the diagnosis and manage their symptoms. Therapists can employ behavioural therapy to help people modify their behaviors and habits.
There's a lot of debate over whether ADHD exists at all and If it does exist, what the causes might be. Some people advocate stricter diagnostic criteria, and a ban of prescribing stimulants to anyone who doesn't meet these criteria. Others advocate non-stimulant treatment which is equally effective and has less negative side consequences. There is a growing movement that encourages more behavioral change. This is more effective over the long term than medications. This can include a variety of psychological techniques, such as cognitive behavior therapy and problem-solving skills training. It could also include parenting skills that can help reduce the impulsiveness and distractions in the home. Other methods of behavior modification, like reward-based training and family therapy, can be helpful too.