Treatment For ADHD
The most common treatments for add are medication and psychosocial therapy (psychotherapy). The medications include stimulants such as methylphenidate amphetamine, and Atomoxetine. They may also be non-stimulants like clonidine or guanfacine.
The use of stimulants should not be used in patients with active substance abuse issues, however they are a possibility for those who are in stable in remission. Combination treatment with antidepressants (particularly SSRIs) is also an option.
Stimulants
Stimulants boost the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine between brain synapses. This helps improve concentration and reduces hyperactivity as well as impulsivity. The majority of doctors prescribe stimulant medication to treat ADHD. They may prescribe methylphenidate (Concerta, Ritalin) or amphetamines, which are very similar medications. treating add in adults of medicine prescribed depends on the biochemistry of each patient and how they respond to it. It could take up to seven days for the full effects of a drug to become apparent. The medication will be effective if you notice improvements in concentration, memory sleep, impulsivity, and sleep.
Some of the side effects can include a decreased appetite, difficulty sleeping and an increase in blood pressure and heart rate. People suffering from medical conditions, such as heart disease or high blood pressure should not take them. These are highly controlled drugs with the potential for misuse. Only psychiatrists, paediatricians or neurologists, and in some situations, general practitioners may prescribe them. They are available in the form or pills, tablets patches that can be applied to the skin or liquids.
Children and adolescents who are taking stimulants often experience appetite problems and weight loss. They can also develop symptoms of tics if the dosage is too high. In this case, the doctor will reduce the dosage to prevent the drug from worsening symptoms.
Stimulant medication is used by approximately 70-80% of children and adults with ADHD. The majority of children and adolescents find that their symptoms improve when treated. This is especially relevant for children with teachers, parents or caregivers who be able to report improvements.
The early use of stimulants can reduce the risk for addiction disorders later in life. Wilens Katusic, Wilens, and colleagues81,82 and Biederman, et al83 discovered that the use of stimulants reduces the risk of acquiring substance use disorders during the adolescent years. However this protective effect fades by early adulthood.