ADHD and Medication
The use of medication can help those with ADHD focus, control hyperactivity and impulsive behavior and complete tasks. They can also reduce depression and anxiety.
The most frequently prescribed medicines to children and teens suffering from ADHD are stimulants. They include amphetamines (such as Adderall and Dexedrine) and methylphenidates (such as Focalin and Ritalin). There is a chance of addiction, so doctors watch children closely for signs of problems.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the drugs doctors typically prescribe for ADHD. uk adhd medication iampsychiatry.com are thought to increase activity in areas of the brain that control attention and behavior. Methylphenidate is the most common medicine used to treat ADHD and doctors may also prescribe amphetamines or a more recent treatment called quebrachine (brand name: Quelbree). Doctors may recommend extended release or prolonged-acting formulations of these medications so that the drug builds slowly in the body and then wear off more gradually. This can help minimize side effects and reduce the chance of experiencing a sudden "rebound" effect as the drug wears off.
Researchers believe that stimulants can help people with ADHD by increasing levels of a neurotransmitter named dopamine in the brain. Dopamine aids in improving concentration and focus as well as reduce hyperactivity and impulsiveness. Dopamine can also boost the activity of the neurons that transmit signals to the brain's nucleus acumbens which are involved in motivation pleasure, reward, and motivation.
According to research, individuals who suffer from ADHD might have lower dopamine levels in their frontal cortex. This is the part of the brain responsible for "executive functions" like planning and organisation. This can result in issues with time management, completing tasks, and reducing emotions. Researchers have also found that stimulant drugs can enhance the frontal cortex function of people suffering from ADHD. This is accomplished by blocking dopamine and norepinephrine reuptake.
Certain people with ADHD do not benefit from stimulant medications, or do not take them well. This could be due to the risk of addiction or abuse or inability to tolerate certain side effects, such as jitteriness and insomnia. In these cases, other medication options may be considered, including atypical antidepressants like Wellbutrin and tricyclic antidepressants. These are usually prescribed for ADHD "off-label", as they are believed to improve attention and have an extremely low risk of abuse or addiction.
In some cases psychoeducation can be provided, which aims to help adolescents, children and adults understand the diagnosis and manage their symptoms. Therapists may employ behavioral therapy to help patients modify their behaviors and habits.
There's plenty of debate over whether ADHD exists and, if it does, what its causes are. Some people advocate stricter diagnostic criteria and an end to prescribing stimulants to anyone who doesn't meet these criteria. Others advocate non-stimulant therapy that can be as effective and has less negative side consequences. There is an increasing movement to encourage more behavioral modification. This is more effective in the long run than prescription medications. This could involve a range of psychological strategies, including cognitive behavior therapy and problem-solving training. It can also include parenting skills, which can help reduce the impulsiveness and distractions in the home. Other types of behavior modification that focus on reward-based training and counseling for families, are also beneficial.