natural adhd medication with ADHD are typically treated with medication and psychosocial therapy. The treatments used to treat ADHD may include stimulants as well as nonstimulants.
Stimulants like methylphenidate or Lisdexamfetamine work on brain chemical messengers to improve mood and concentration and control of impulses. Atomoxetine and guanfacine, both of both of which are non-stimulant ADHD medications, can be prescribed to teenagers, adults or children who are not responsive to stimulants.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most commonly prescribed drugs to treat ADHD. They increase levels of chemicals (neurotransmitters) in the brain called dopamine and norepinephrine. They help people pay attention and manage their behavior. They have been proven to alleviate ADHD symptoms in 70% to 80percent of adults and children. This includes the reduction of hyperactivity, fidgeting, and interrupting, helping with tasks and enhancing relationships. They also have been proven to boost academic performance and decrease absenteeism.
The majority of these drugs are taken orally. They come in two types of immediate-release (short-acting) and extended-release. The long-acting versions are slowly absorbed into the bloodstream, and they wear off slower than doses with short-acting. This can help avoid the "crash" effect, which occurs when a drug wears off, causing symptoms to come back, including low mood feelings of hunger, and fatigue.
Methylphenidate is a popular stimulant that is used by children and teens. It is available as chewable pills, oral patches and tablets that can be swallowed. There are also the amphetamines Adderall and Dexedrine which are more potent and last longer than methylphenidate. Atomoxetine is another, that was recently licensed to be used for adults and children older than 5 years old when other medications fail to work or cause unwanted side effects.
Amphetamines could affect the heart, and are not recommended for those suffering from heart problems. They can also be used to abuse and cause addiction.
Nonstimulant ADHD medications are available, however they are more difficult to use and do not have the same effects. adhd stimulant medication are typically used in conjunction with the behavioral therapy method which is often described as multimodal therapy.
Some studies have shown that a combination of medication and behavioral therapy can help people suffering from ADHD function at home, school or work. The condition cannot be controlled by medication alone. Many people with ADHD struggle to function despite taking medication.
In these instances, you should discuss with your doctor about other options for treatment are available. In certain cases, these treatments include psychoeducation which aids adolescents, children and adults comprehend their diagnosis of ADHD and teach them strategies to cope with it. This is often combined behavioural therapy and skill-training to improve the performance of people with ADHD at work and in school.
While certain ADHD medications can have side effects, these tend to be minor and short-lived. Most of them disappear as a person's body gets used to the medication, and if they persist, your doctor may be able to alter the dosage or type of medication. It is essential to tell your doctor about any changes in your mood appetite, sleep, or stomach upsets you or your child experience while taking this medication. This information will help your doctor determine the most effective medication for your child or yourself. This is crucial, particularly if you have other health conditions that can affect the medication and increase your risk of side-effects.