Treatment For ADHD
Psychosocial therapy is the main treatment for adding. The medications can include stimulants such as amphetamine and methylphenidate, and non-stimulants such as atomoxetine, viloxazine, guanfacine, and clonidine.
Patients with active substance abuse issues shouldn't take stimulant drugs. However, those in stable remission might consider them. Combination therapy using antidepressants, especially SSRIs, is another option.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase norepinephrine and dopamine levels between the brain's synapses. This improves concentration and reduces hyperactivity as well as impulsivity. Most doctors prescribe medication from the stimulant class to treat ADHD. They may prescribe methylphenidate, (Concerta or Ritalin), or amphetamines. These are both very similar drugs. The type of medicine prescribed will depend on the individual's biochemistry and how well they respond to the medication. It can take five to seven days before the full effects of the medication are visible. The medicine will work if you notice improvements in memory, concentration, sleep, and impulsivity.
Medications in this class can have adverse effects, including reduced appetite and difficulty sleeping, and they may raise blood pressure and heart rate. People suffering from medical conditions, such as heart disease or high blood pressure, should not take them. The stimulants have a high risk for abuse and are closely controlled drugs. Only adults adhd treatment , psychiatrists or neurologists, and in some circumstances general practitioners can prescribe them. They can be found in the form of pills or tablets or patches that are placed on the skin, or in liquids.
Children and adolescents who are dependent on stimulants often suffer from weight loss and a lack of appetite. If the dosage is excessive, they could also develop symptoms of tics. In this case, the doctor will reduce the dose to prevent the symptoms from getting worse.
The use of stimulant medications is for approximately 70-80 percent of adults and children with ADHD. The majority of children and young people notice that their symptoms improve with treatment. This is especially relevant for children who have parents, teachers or carers who have reported improvements.
Early use of stimulants could reduce the risk for addiction disorders later in life. Wilens Katusic, Wilens colleagues81,82, and Biederman, et al83 discovered that treatment with stimulants reduces the risk of substance addiction disorders during the adolescent years. However the protective effect diminishes in the early years of adulthood.