ADHD Medication Side Effects
If your doctor prescribes ADHD medicine for your child or you, you might have side effects. It could take some time to determine the best medication and dosage for you.
Stimulants are the most commonly used treatments for ADHD. They boost brain chemicals that affect attention and concentration.
Doctors can prescribe guanfacine (trade names Tenex and Intuniv), and clonidine, (Catapres) to help reduce behavior that is impulsive or tics in people with ADHD. They can take a few weeks to take effect.
Stimulants
The most commonly used medication by healthcare providers to treat ADHD is stimulants. These medications boost the brain chemicals called dopamine and norepinephrine which assist people to pay attention and focus their thoughts. They also assist in decreasing feelings of anxiety, impulsivity, and aggression. Stimulants are highly regulated, so only trained paediatricians and psychiatrists can prescribe them.
Amphetamines and methylphenidates are two the most common stimulants used to treat ADHD. These medications have been in use for decades and work in different ways to increase neurotransmitters that regulate mood and motivation, as well as thinking abilities. They are available in different forms including immediate release and extended-release capsules or tablets. Some are taken orally, and some are given by injection. Most people take the extended-release versions of these drugs, which last from morning until evening, and help people avoid the "crash" that often happens after they have stopped taking an a stimulant that has a short-acting effect.
Nonstimulants
They are not as effective as stimulants but can help people control their behavior and improve their concentration. They can be prescribed by a physician for adults and teenagers who don't get enough support from stimulants, or to increase the effects of stimulants on children. Some of these medicines are antidepressants, whereas others are blood pressure drugs. They can take up to several weeks before they begin working, and they don't work as effectively as stimulants.
Behaviour therapy
Treatment options for ADHD patients often comprise a combination of therapy and medication that includes individual cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or family-based therapy. Behavioural therapy is more efficient than medication alone. Teachers and parents can discover how to promote positive behavior and reduce negative behaviour among children with ADHD through a treatment program for families. Individual CBT assists people who have ADHD to understand how to change their thinking patterns and manage their problems better.
Behavioural therapy is especially beneficial for children who are young and have ADHD. It will help them develop the abilities to improve their relationships with other children and cope with social challenges. It can help parents learn how to help their child's behavior and learning at home and at school.
Lifestyle changes
You can make changes to your diet, such as avoiding foods that are high in sugar or artificial colours or flavours. There is no evidence that these diets aid in the treatment of ADHD symptoms. It is crucial to seek advice from a doctor before making any changes to your child's eating habits.
adhd medication of medication
All medicines have some side effects, but most will disappear after your body has adjusted to the medication. Some side effects of these drugs can be extremely serious and you should talk to your doctor in case you are concerned.
Psychoeducation is a learning program that helps adolescents, children, and adults comprehend their ADHD and how they can best manage it. It is a great option for parents and carers who struggle to deal with their own issues when dealing with a child who has ADHD.