ADHD Medication Side Effects
You or your child could be impacted by side effects if your doctor prescribes ADHD medication. Learn Additional may take a long time to find the right dose and medicine for you.
Stimulants are the most common drugs used to treat ADHD. They increase brain chemicals which influence attention and concentration.
Doctors also prescribe Guanfacine (brand names Tenex and Intuniv) and clonidine (Catapres) to help reduce tics and impulsive behavior in people suffering from ADHD. It can take several weeks to effect.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most commonly used type of medication healthcare providers use to treat ADHD. They increase the levels of brain chemicals known as dopamine and norepinephrine. These substances help people focus their thoughts and pay attention. These medicines are also effective in reducing impulsivity, restlessness and aggression. Stimulants are highly regulated, so only trained paediatricians and psychiatrists are qualified to prescribe them.
The most frequently used stimulants for treating ADHD include amphetamines and methylphenidates. These drugs have been available for decades and increase neurotransmitters in different ways. They are available in a variety of forms such as extended-release and immediate-release tablets or capsules. Some are taken orally and some are given by injection. The majority of people use extended-release versions of these drugs, which last from morning until evening, and assist in avoiding the "crash" that often happens when they come off an a stimulant that has a short-acting effect.
Non-stimulants
These medicines are not as effective as stimulants but can help people to control their behavior and concentrate better. These medicines are usually prescribed by a doctor for teenagers and adults who do not get enough stimulation from stimulants or to enhance the effects of stimulants on children. Certain of these medications are antidepressants while others are a blood pressure drug. They can take up to several weeks before they begin working, and don't perform like stimulants.
Behavioural therapy
Treatment options for ADHD patients typically comprise a combination of therapy and medication, such as individual cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or family-based therapy. Behaviour therapy is more effective than medication alone. Teachers and parents can learn how to encourage positive behaviour and discourage negative behaviour among children with ADHD through a treatment program for families. Individual CBT can help people with ADHD learn to change their thinking patterns and manage their issues more effectively.
Behavioural therapy is particularly useful for young children with ADHD. This can help children build abilities to build relationships with other children and deal with social difficulties. It can teach parents how to support their child's behavior and learning at home and in school.
Lifestyle changes
It is possible to make changes to your diet for example, abstaining from foods that are high in sugar and artificial colours or flavors. There isn't strong evidence that diets that are like this enhance ADHD symptoms. Before modifying your child's diet, you are crucial to speak with a physician.
The side effects of medication
All medicines come with side effects, but most go away when your body is accustomed to the medication. Some side effects of these drugs can be extremely dangerous, and you should always talk to your doctor in case you are concerned.
Psychoeducation is a learning program which can help children, teenagers and adults understand their ADHD and how they can best live with it. adhd without medication can be useful for parents and carers who struggle with their own issues when dealing with children with ADHD.