ADHD Stimulant Medication
For many people with ADHD medications can help manage symptoms and improve their ability to function.1
The effects of stimulants can increase certain brain chemicals that help nerves communicate. They also reduce impulsiveness and aggression.
The medications are available in a variety of forms (eg, tablets, liquids) and are available to both children and adults. It may take time to determine the appropriate dosage for each individual.
Types
Stimulant drugs like methylphenidate or amphetamine reduce ADHD symptoms in 70 to the majority of children and adults (Spencer and colleagues, 2005). These drugs increase levels of dopamine, and norepinephrine. They help alleviate the primary symptoms of the condition, such as fidgeting, impulsivity and difficulty paying attention. The drugs also help people complete tasks and develop better social skills. In general, the drugs are best used in conjunction with a treatment plan that includes behavioral therapy and training in skills.
Doctors aren't able to predict which medication is best for each person, so most start with a medication trial to figure out the dose that is effective. Some medications take several weeks to reach their maximum effectiveness. They may need to adjust in time, based on the patient's response and side effects. The goal is to find the lowest possible dose that still helps a person manage their ADHD symptoms effectively.
The kinds of stimulant medications available are immediate-release methylphenidate and amphetamine, intermediate-release atomoxetine as well as long-acting guanfacine, dexamphetamine. The medication is available in capsule, liquid, or chewable tablet forms. The three extended-release medications are available as beads that can be sprinkled over food items for children who are having difficulty swallowing pills or tablets.
These medications can cause a decrease in appetite and sleepiness. However, they can improve with regular usage. Insomnia is a common side effect, but doctors typically avoid giving people this type of medication prior to the time of bed. Insomnia from methylphenidate or amphetamine is more severe in teenagers and preteens. Parents must be aware for warning signs.
Patients with heart issues or other health issues should discuss taking these medications with a medical professional. They may cause an abrupt increase in blood pressure or heart rate, and should not be taken by those who have a history of substance abuse or psychiatric disorders.
Stimulant medications have the potential to be misused, especially by teens who might take them to lose weight or to achieve a high. Siu and Smith warn that this is a serious concern and puts teens at risk of a heart-related fatality. It's crucial to educate kids and teens about the dangers of taking prescriptions from another or sharing their own with friends, and to talk with a physician about the possibility of abuse.
Dosage
Stimulant medicines are typically taken as pills. The dosage is determined by your physician based on the severity of your symptoms, medical conditions or other medications you're taking and the drug's side effects. Many people are able to determine the appropriate dosage is a trial-and-error procedure, so communicating with your doctor is important.
A typical type of ADHD stimulant is methylphenidates (MPH). They are available in liquid, chewable or tablet form and can be prescribed as short or long-acting. The longer-acting formulations take more time to work but can last for up to eight hours. The shorter-acting ones are quick-acting however they wear off faster. Doctors usually start patients with the lowest dose gradually increasing it until they notice improvement in their symptoms.
Certain adults require multiple stimulant medications to treat their symptoms. According to the person, the medication may have to be taken conjunction with other treatments, such as behavior therapy.
Stimulants are regarded as the first line treatment for ADHD as they have been proven to reduce symptoms in 70-80 percent of children and adults. They reduce the frequency of fidgeting, hyperactivity, interruptions and impulsive behavior. They also aid people to concentrate and complete tasks. They can also help improve communication and overall performance.
The FDA has approved a variety of amphetamines and methylphenidates for the treatment of ADHD. In general, these drugs are well-tolerated and have been shown to be efficient. It is vital to keep in mind that these medications are susceptible to being misused and used in a way that is harmful. They are classified by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration as Schedule II controlled drugs.
Stimulant drugs can be utilized in conjunction with medications for treating mood disorders or depression. These medications work by increasing levels of norepinephrine, which is a neurotransmitter that aids people in concentrating and control their behavior. They can reduce the amount of impulsivity and improve attention among some people with ADHD however, they aren't as effective as stimulants at reducing hyperactivity or inattention.
Some people who are taking these medications experience a drop in energy or feeling of being "on edge." This is referred to as the crash effect and can cause depression, severe hunger, and other undesirable side effects. It can also occur when someone is coming off the effects of a stimulant that is short-acting, particularly if they haven't used for a long period of period of time or used an extremely high dose.
Side effects
Stimulant medicines are effective by increasing levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain, which can help improve attention and control of impulses. The most popular stimulants used for ADHD are methylphenidates and amphetamines. The most common forms of these drugs are Ritalin, Concerta, Focalin and Adderall. They are available in different forms and doses, from pills to liquids. These medications are utilized by a large number of children and adults to manage their symptoms along with other treatments such as therapy, skill training, and lifestyle change.
These drugs can result in side effects such as decreased appetite and difficulty sleeping. If you experience these side effects, you or your child may require taking the medication at a later date or eat more food during the day, or have snacks, and try to avoid caffeinated beverages. These side effects typically disappear within several weeks as your body adjusts to the medicine, and it is important to follow your doctor's advice regarding dosage and frequency.
The medications aren't the only method to treat ADHD however they do reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity in 70-80% of those who suffer from the condition. concerta adhd medication can also improve your sleeping and finish your schoolwork, and focus on tasks with the help of medications. Your doctor will discuss the risks and advantages of the medication with you, and then monitor your response.
Stimulants are categorized as controlled substances, which means that they have a high risk of misuse and addiction. However, when taken as prescribed by your doctor, they are not habit-forming. They are frequently misused by people who don't suffer from ADHD. They may use them to increase their alertness or to curb their appetite to lose weight. When used for medical reasons stimulant medications are extremely effective and safe.
Nonstimulants are medicines that do not increase the levels of dopamine or norepinephrine in the body. They take longer to work however, they can enhance your control and attention. They are less likely to be misused, but they could cause adverse effects like a decreased appetite or difficulties sleeping. Nonstimulant medications include Strattera, Qelbree, and Intuniv. Antidepressants can be used by themselves or in conjunction with stimulants to treat ADHD symptoms.
Overdose
Stimulant medications have a potential to be misused or even abused, even when they are prescribed for a legitimate medical reason. Some people who don't suffer from ADHD abuse these medications to feel more alert or to curb their appetite and lose weight. Some may use these drugs to feel "high." People who suffer from ADHD who receive the proper treatment from a physician aren't likely to develop addictions to these medications, however these drugs carry the risk of overdose and even death.
Some of the most severe harms associated with nonmedical use involve the ingestion of prescription stimulants, which typically happens through mouth, but may also occur when these medications are crushed and then dissolved in water to drink, snorted or injectable. According to data from U.S. Poison Centers these kinds of harms are more prevalent among teenagers who are using their own prescription stimulant or medication prescribed by someone else who is not mentioned on the prescriptions.
Many children are misled into taking the stimulant prescribed by their parents or older siblings to become more awake or stay up later to study for tests or to get high. These are typically accidents but they can also lead to serious poisoning or even heart issues. Some children acquire the tablets by stealing from family members or friends who have an prescription. The tablets can be particularly dangerous for kids who have a preexisting heart condition or other health problems which can make them more sensitive to the drug's side effects.
These medications can be purchased without a prescription from dealers in the drug trade or from illegal sellers on the internet. They may contain fake pills which look like prescription stimulants, however they are dangerous illegal substances. These drugs also are a danger when taken in combination with alcohol or other controlled substances such as opioids.
Encourage patients to go through their Medication Guide, which will be included with their completed prescriptions. This guide contains details about the medicine, including possible warnings and side effects. It will also explain how to store and dispose of prescriptions that have expired, which includes taking them back to a pharmacy or an authorized disposal facility or location. Encourage them to call the FDA's MedWatch Hotline if they're concerned about their medicine or experiencing any adverse negative effects.