Treatment For ADHD
Psychosocial therapy is the main treatment for adding. The medications include stimulants such as methylphenidate amphetamine, and Atomoxetine. They may also be nonstimulants, like clonidine and guanfacine.
Patients with active substance abuse issues should not take stimulant medications. However, those who are in stable remission might look into them. Combination therapy with antidepressants, particularly SSRIs, is an alternative option.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine that are released between brain synapses. This improves concentration and decreases hyperactivity and impulsivity. Most doctors prescribe stimulant medications to treat ADHD. They may prescribe methylphenidate (Concerta, Ritalin) or amphetamines, which are similar medicines. The type prescribed will depend on a person's individual biochemistry and how well they respond to the medicine. It can take up to seven days for the full effects of a drug to be apparent. The medication will be effective if you notice improvements in your concentration, memory sleep, impulsivity, and sleep.
These medications can cause side effects, such as diminished appetite and trouble sleeping, and they may raise blood pressure and heart rate. Some people who have an illness such as high blood pressure or heart disease, should not use these medications. Stimulants have a high potential for abuse and are closely controlled drugs. Only paediatricians or psychiatrists or, in some instances general practitioners, may prescribe stimulants. You can get them in the form or tablets, pills patches, or patches that are applied to the skin or in liquids.
Children and adolescents who are taking stimulants are often afflicted with appetite issues and weight loss. treating add in adults can also develop disorders when the dose is too high. In this instance, the doctor will reduce the dose to stop the drug from causing more symptoms.
Stimulant medication is used by around 70 to 80% of children and adults with ADHD. A majority of children and young adults notice that their symptoms improve when they receive treatment. This is particularly relevant for children who have parents, teachers or carers that can report improvements.
The early use of stimulants can reduce the risk of substance use disorders later in life. Wilens Katusic, Wilens, and colleagues81,82 and Biederman, et al83, found that stimulant therapy reduces the risk of substance addiction disorders during the adolescent period. However, this protective effect fades in the early years of adulthood.