Ten ADHD Medication Myths That Aren't Always True

ADHD Medicine For Kids Some kids need to take more than one ADHD medication to achieve the best results. Children should take their medicine regularly. Stimulant medications work to help normal brain chemicals improve concentration and control impulses. They are available in liquid form extended-release capsules or pill form. The doctor will begin with a low dosage and then monitor your reaction to the drug. Methylphenidate Methylphenidate, a stimulant, can be used to treat the symptoms of narcolepsy as well as ADHD symptoms. It boosts levels of dopamine, which improves mood and concentration. It is a controlled substance which means that it has to be prescribed by a doctor and can only be purchased with a prescription (it is not available for purchase on the streets). Methylphenidate can be purchased in tablets, capsules, oral solution or transdermal patches. The kind of methylphenidate prescribed depends on the doctor's diagnosis and other factors. Methylphenidate could cause adverse reactions such as stomachache or headache, a dry mouth, a fast heartbeat, shakiness or anxiety. Some sufferers may experience facial tics which are uncontrollable movements of muscles of the face. This happens in less than one in 100 people taking methylphenidate, however, it is important to inform your doctor right away in the event that you or your child start experiencing this problem. It can also cause an increase in heart rate and blood pressure which your doctor will closely watch during your treatment. It can also trigger reactions to the skin in certain people, including an itch that is swollen and itchy, or raised or blistered, and also a change in the way that blood flows to the fingers and toes (Raynaud's disease). This is extremely serious and requires immediate treatment in hospital. Generally speaking, methylphenidate is to be safe for most people if taken according to the directions. However, it can cause a serious reduction in blood pressure in the event that the dosage is too high or it's taken frequently. It can also make you feel dizzy and sleepy, so it's not recommended that you operate machinery or drive if you take it. Methylphenidate has been classified as a Schedule II substance, meaning that it can be abused. It can also become habit-forming in some people, so you should be careful not to share your medication with anyone else. The best way to help stop this from happening is to keep your methylphenidate locked in a cupboard and use only the amount prescribed by your doctor. Amphetamines Medications known as amphetamines are used to treat ADHD in children and adolescents as well as adults. They work by increasing the levels of certain chemicals in the brain that improve concentration and help to control impulsive behaviour. They can also help with some Tourette's symptoms. They are available as immediate-release tablets, extended-release capsules and an oral solution. In the UK they are controlled medicines (class C) which means you must be signed in by your physician to receive them. Most people take them once every week, however some people might take them twice. Atomoxetine is different from other stimulant medicines. It is available to children and teenagers older than 5 if methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine aren't available. It works differently than other stimulant medications however, it can be given to children and teens over the age of five if it's impossible to use methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine or for adults when the condition is recognized in this group. It is usually taken as a capsule, every day, either once or twice. Drugs that stimulate the brain are often abused. Make sure your child's or teen's medications out of reach and sight of friends. They must not be sold or shared. It is risky to take the medication in the wrong way. For instance crushing the pill and injecting it. Certain street drugs are made up of the structure of amphetamines, including methamphetamine and MDMA (ecstasy). Amphetamines are addictive and can cause side effects that are difficult to manage particularly for older people. These side effects may include extreme fatigue and irritation. They can also cause cravings for the drug, a desire to continue taking the drug, and a feeling of extreme fatigue. If you or your child experiences any of these symptoms speak to your doctor as soon as you can. If adhd without medication or your children are taking long-acting stimulating drugs, it is crucial to be aware that blood pressure may drop abruptly when the drug is removed. Contact triple zero (000), an ambulance, immediately if this happens. This could be extremely dangerous and could result in a stroke, heart attack or even death. You can seek support and advice from your doctor by discussing with them the consequences of stopping the medication or decreasing the dosage. Long-acting stimulants Many people with ADHD find that stimulants help them stay focused, finish tasks and enhance their relationships. Some people are not able to take this type of medication. The side effects, such as anxiety and heart palpitations and the negative impact on sleep and appetite are often uncomfortable. These issues can stop people from taking the medication they need. There are ways to ease these side effects. Your doctor can lower the dose of your medicine or switch you to a different medication, and self-help strategies can also be a huge help. Most people who are taking an ADHD medication must be monitored closely by medical professionals. It takes up to a month before the medication has its full effect, so it is crucial to determine the right dosage. The doctor will inquire about your daily routine and habits and any other health issues you or your child may be suffering from. The most popular types of long-acting stimulants are Concerta, Focalin and Ritalin SR, as well as Vyvanse. These drugs are part of a group of drugs referred to as methylphenidates. They have been around for many years. Some of them are available as chewable tablets and liquids, while others can be applied to a skin patch for kids who don't want to swallow pills. Adderall, Dexedrine and other amphetamine-based ADHD medications are also available. These are more powerful and last longer than methylphenidates. They can be taken in various ways, including powder for younger children who cannot take pills. Some children prefer taking these medications in combination with juice or milk. Strattera (atomoxetine) and Qelbree, (viloxazine), are long-acting stimulants which do not belong to the methylphenidate group or the amphetamine group. They are part of a class of drugs called selective Norepinephrine Reuptake inhibitors and work by increasing levels of norepinephrine, a brain chemical. They can also reduce the symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity. Other medicines If the stimulants don't work or have unpleasant adverse effects, doctors may prescribe non-stimulant medication. These drugs take longer to start working however they can enhance your ability to concentrate and control your impulses. They can also help reduce anxiety and depression, which may sometimes occur along with ADHD. Doctors might also suggest therapy to help you learn how to manage your symptoms and to improve your behavior. They might suggest you avoid certain beverages, foods or activities that are believed to cause problems for people with ADHD. Stimulants regulate the levels of two chemical brain-based messengers, norepinephrine and dopamine. Norepinephrine aids in concentration and dopamine helps to increase this concentration. There are 12 approved drugs to treat ADHD. These include methylphenidate hydrochloride, lisdexamfetamine dimesylate, amphetamine sulfate, dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride/serdexmethylphenidate chloride, mixed amphetamine salts and atomoxetine (Strattera). Atomoxetine is the first medication to be approved as a non-stimulant in adults with ADHD. adhd depression medication is an inhibitor selective of norepinephrine production, which means that it boosts the levels of norepinephrine inside the brain. Other drugs in this class include Guanfacine (Tenex, Intuniv), and Clonidine (Catapres). Doctors can prescribe antidepressants that increase the amount of the chemical messenger dopamine in the brain. Bupropion is the most commonly prescribed antidepressant for adults with ADHD. It is often prescribed “off-label” to treat ADHD if it appears alongside depression or other substance use disorders, specifically nicotine addiction and cannabis. Some experts think that there is a connection between mood and ADHD which is why antidepressants may help with treating ADHD symptoms and improving your mood. The NHS recommends that you speak with your GP prior to taking these drugs. If your GP determines that medication is suitable for you, they will prescribe a dose and begin you on small doses which they will gradually increase over a few weeks. Your GP will be monitoring you regularly to ensure that the treatment is working and to look for any adverse effects. They can recommend you to an expert like a counselor or psychologist, for further assistance.