Treatment For ADHD
The most common treatments for add are medication and psychosocial therapy (psychotherapy). The medications can include stimulants such as amphetamine and methylphenidate, as well as non-stimulants such as atomoxetine, clonidine, guanfacine and viloxazine.
Stimulant medication should not be used by patients with active addiction issues, but they can be considered in those who are in stable recovery. Combination treatment with antidepressants (particularly SSRIs) is also an option.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in brain synapses. This improves concentration and decreases hyperactivity and impulsivity. Most doctors prescribe stimulant medications to treat ADHD. They may recommend methylphenidate (Concerta, Ritalin) or amphetamines which are similar medicines. The type of medicine prescribed depends on the biochemistry of each patient and how they respond to it. It could take between five and seven days before the full effects of the medication are visible. treatment adult adhd will be effective when you notice improvements in memory, concentration sleep, and impulsivity.
Some of the side effects can include a decrease in appetite, trouble sleeping, and an increase in blood pressure and heart rate. Some people with an illness such as high blood pressure or heart disease, shouldn't take them. These are highly controlled drugs that are prone to misuse. Only paediatricians or psychiatrists or in certain cases, general practitioners, can prescribe stimulants. They can be found in the form of pills or tablets, a patch that goes on the skin, or liquids.
Children and adolescents who take stimulants often experience appetite problems and weight loss. If the dosage is excessive, they could also develop symptoms of tics. In this situation the doctor will decrease the dosage to prevent the symptoms from getting worse.
The use of stimulant medications is for about 70% to 80 percent of adults and children with ADHD. The majority of children and adolescents find that their symptoms improve when treated. This is especially relevant for children with parents, teachers or caregivers who report improvements.
The early use of stimulants can reduce the risk of addiction disorders later in the course of. Wilens Katusic, Wilens colleagues81,82 and Biederman, et al83, found that stimulant therapy reduces the risk of developing substance use disorders in adolescence. However the protective effect diminishes in the early years of adulthood.