ADHD and Medication
The use of medication can help those with ADHD focus, control impulsive behavior and hyperactivity, and finish tasks. They can also reduce depression and anxiety.
Stimulants are the drugs most often prescribed for kids and teens suffering from ADHD. They include amphetamines (such as Adderall and Dexedrine) and the methylphenidates (such as Focalin and Ritalin). Doctors monitor children closely to detect signs of addiction.
Stimulants
The most common medication prescribed by doctors to treat ADHD is stimulants. They are believed to work by increasing the activity in brain areas that control attention and behavior. Methylphenidate, which is the most frequently prescribed medicine for ADHD, is also available in amphetamines and a newer drug known as quebrachine (brand names include Quelbree). These medications are usually prescribed in formulations with a long-acting effect or with extended release to ensure that they increase in strength slowly and are released slowly. This will minimize the risk of side effects and reduce chances of a sudden "rebound” effect as the drug wears off.
Researchers believe that stimulants aid people suffering from ADHD by increasing levels of a neurotransmitter known as dopamine in the brain. Dopamine is known to improve concentration and focus, as well as reduce hyperactivity and impulsiveness. These drugs can also boost the activity neurons that send signals to the nucleus Acumbens which are involved in motivation and pleasure as well as reward.
Research suggests that people with ADHD have lower levels of dopamine in the frontal cortex, a region of the brain that is responsible for such "executive" functions like planning and organising. This can result in issues with time management and working through tasks, as well as difficulty suppressing emotions and controlling impulses. Researchers have also discovered that stimulant drugs can enhance the frontal cortex function of people suffering from ADHD. This is achieved by blocking the reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine.
Certain people with ADHD do not respond well to stimulant medication or are not tolerant of them. This could be due to the potential for abuse and addiction as well as an intolerance to certain side effects such as jitteriness or insomnia. In adhd sleep medication , other medications may be offered for treatment, like Wellbutrin and tricyclic antidepressants. These are often prescribed "off-label" for ADHD because they are thought to improve attention in certain patients and have an extremely low chance of addiction or misuse.
Psychoeducation is offered in certain situations to help children, teens and adults recognize their diagnosis and manage their symptoms. Therapists may employ behavioural therapy to help people change their behavior and habits.
There's plenty of debate over whether ADHD exists, and if so and what its causes are. Some people are urging stricter diagnostic criteria and an end to the use of stimulants for anyone who doesn't meet these criteria, while others are advocating non-stimulant therapies which are equally effective and have less side consequences. There is a growing movement that encourages more behavioral modification. This can be more effective over the long term than medication. This can include a variety of psychological techniques, such as cognitive behavior therapy and problem-solving skills training. It can also include parenting skills, which can help to reduce distraction and impulsiveness in the home. adhd treatment medication of behavior modification, such as reward-based training and family therapy, can be helpful too.