Treatment For ADHD
Psychosocial therapy is the main treatment for add. The medications contain stimulants like methylphenidate, amphetamine, and Atomoxetine. They can also be nonstimulants, like clonidine and Guanfacine.
The use of stimulants should not be used in patients with active substance abuse issues, however they are an option for those who are in stable in remission. Combination therapy with antidepressants (particularly SSRIs) is also an option.
Stimulants
Stimulants boost dopamine and norepinephrine levels between synapses in the brain. This improves concentration and reduces hyperactivity and impulsivity. The majority of doctors prescribe medications from the stimulant class to treat ADHD. Suggested Reading may prescribe methylphenidate, (Concerta or Ritalin) or amphetamines. These are both very similar drugs. The type of medication prescribed will depend on the person's biochemistry as well as how well they respond to the medication. It could take anywhere from five to seven days before the full effects of the medication are visible. The medicine will work for you if you notice improvement in concentration, memory sleep, and impulsivity.
The medicines in this class may have adverse effects, including decreased appetite and trouble sleeping, and they may increase heart rate and blood pressure. People suffering from medical conditions, such as heart disease or high blood pressure, should not take them. Stimulants have a high potential for abuse and are closely controlled drugs. Only psychiatrists or pediatricians, or in some cases general practitioners, may prescribe stimulants. You can get them in the form or pills, tablets patches, or patches that are applied to the skin or liquids.
Children and adolescents who take stimulants often suffer from weight loss and appetite problems. If the dosage is excessive, they could also develop symptoms of tics. If this occurs, the doctor might reduce the dosage to avoid the drug from causing worsening of symptoms.
About 70% to 80 percent of children and adults suffering from ADHD are treated with stimulant medications. A majority of children and young adults notice that their symptoms improve with treatment. This is particularly true for those with teachers, parents or caregivers who report improvements.
The early use of stimulants may lower the risk of developing addiction disorders later in life. Wilens Katusic, Wilens, and colleagues81,82 and Biederman, et al83 discovered that treatment with stimulants reduces the risk of substance use disorders in the adolescent period. However this protective effect fades in the early years of adulthood.